On 31 August 2022, two major updates were announced on Australia’s COVID-19 isolation rules and mask-wearing.
Here’s what you need to know.
How long is COVID-19 isolation now?
Australia’s National Cabinet has agreed to shorten COVID-19 isolation requirements from seven days to five days, with the following conditions:
- These new requirements only apply to people with no symptoms after five days of isolation
- Workers in high-risk settings, such as disability and aged care, must continue to isolate for seven days.
These changes will come into effect from Friday 9 September. The Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, which international students are able to access, will have its eligibility changed to reflect these changes in isolation periods. ABC News has reported that it understands the reduced payment will amount to $540, down from $750.
Do I have to wear a mask on planes in Australia?
In the same statement, the National Cabinet agreed to remove the mandatory wearing of masks on domestic flights. This change will come into effect from Friday 9 September. The requirement to wear a mask on international flights entering Australia is also to be lifted on the same date. Since 17 June 2022, you have not had to wear a mask in airport terminals.
Learn more about the rules in your state or territory below:
