Western Australia to open borders in February 2022: What you need to know
Western Australia's tightly held border restrictions will ease in February 2022, following the state reaching an anticipated full vaccination rate of over 90 per cent.
Premier Mark McGowan announced that as of 12.01am on Saturday, February 5, the state's hard border closure will end.
Mr McGowan said this date was "locked in", but some rules still remain. Here's what we know so far.
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When will Western Australia open its borders to interstate travellers from the rest of Australia?
WA's borders will reopen at 12.01am on Saturday February 5, 2022.
Why is WA opening on that specific date?
Premier Mark McGowan has set this date following medical advice that anticipates WA will reach a full, two-dose vaccination rate of more than 90 per cent for residents aged 12 and over.
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Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan said the February 5 date was "locked in". Getty
What will interstate travellers need to do to enter WA after that date?
Interstate travellers will need to prove they are fully vaccinated.
If the trip is for six days or more, domestic travellers must be able to show a negative PCR test taken 72 hours prior to arrival to WA and undertake another test 48 hours after arriving.
What about unvaccinated travellers?
Domestic unvaccinated travellers will not be allowed to enter Western Australia.
Unvaccinated international travellers will need to quarantine in a state-run facility for two weeks.
The change in rules is due to the WA State Government not having control over international borders, which are governed by the Commonwealth Government.
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Fully vaccinated travellers can enter WA from early February 2022. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Will I have to quarantine upon entering WA?
No.
If you are fully vaccinated, you will not need to quarantine regardless of whether you are a domestic or an international traveller.
You will still need to be able to show proof of your vaccination status, and if your trip is for six days or more, you still need have a negative test within 72 hours of flying and undertake another test within 48 hours of landing.
What if I'm ineligible for vaccinations due to my medical status?
You will be allowed to enter if you are medically exempt from receiving COVID-19 vaccinations.
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Will I need to wear a mask in WA?
After February 5, 2022, there are some places where you will need to wear a mask.
These include public transport, rideshare services, visits to hospitals, visits to aged care facilities and visits to custodial facilities.
More to come ...
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