Australia opens borders for first time in two years

Australia welcomed British travellers with a red-carpet welcome as it reopened its borders for the first time in nearly two years.

Most foreigners have had to wait since late last year when Australians and others were allowed to return.

Hundreds of people began arriving on flights on Monday, and there were emotional reunions at the airport.

Tourism Australia managing director, Phillipa Harrison, and Minister for trade, tourism and investment, Dan Tehan, greeted tourists at the airport.

There was live entertainment, Australian themed gifts and a giant 75-metre message painted on one of the runways when travellers arrived at the airport this morning.

Harrison said that Tourism Australia is excited to be welcoming back international visitors who make up a critical part of the visitor economy.

We know Australia remains an incredibly desirable destination for international visitors and we can't wait to once again share all of the unforgettable tourism experiences we have to offer here in Australia.

The last two years have been very challenging for the tourism industry, and whilst recovery will take a bit of time, operators can't wait to welcome back international tourists.

Unvaccinated travellers must stay in a hotel for up to 14 days at their own expense if they are double-jabbed.

International flights were due to land on Monday.

Western Australia, which is closed until March 3rd, requires three jabs for travellers to enter.

Australia had over 9 million overseas visitors in 2019.

Harrison Tehan hoped for a strong rebound in the tourism sector, which has been hit by domestic travel bans.