The Federal Government said the move was in response to the “significant wave” of infections in China.
From January 5, travellers from China to Australia will be required to undertake a COVID-19 test within a window of 48hrs prior to travel and show evidence of a negative test result.
Despite China scrapping COVID-19 quarantine requirements for passengers arriving from abroad starting January 8, several countries including the United States and Italy, have imposed travel restrictions on Chinese visitors.
Minister for Health Mark Butler said the decision to implement the temporary measures was made out of an “abundance of caution”.
Butler said over the past three days he has been briefed extensively by the Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly.
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“(We are) taking into account the dynamic and evolving situation in China and the potential for new variants to emerge in an environment of high transmission,” he said.
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“Australia is well positioned in its pandemic response. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation in Australia and internationally, in collaboration with medical experts.”
Butler said the government, universities and the tourism industry warmly welcomed the resumption of travel from China.
“This is a temporary measure,” he said.
“The government welcomes the resumption of travel and understand there are many Chinese Australians who haven’t seen family and friends for months and some cases for years.
“This small but sensible move will help to protect people who are at risk of severe illness and safeguard our healthcare system.”
The new changes will apply to travellers from Hong Kong and Macau, in addition to those from mainland China.
