Govt imposes isolation

ALL travellers arriving into Australia are now subject to a mandatory 14-day self-isolation period, as the latest escalation of the government’s response to coronavirus (TD breaking news).

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the dramatic move yesterday afternoon, following a similar announcement the day prior by NZ authorities.

Morrison said the rate of community transmission of COVID-19 was picking up, with the government resolved to “help stay ahead of this curve”.

The “universal precautionary self-isolation requirement” became effective at midnight, meaning many travellers who were overseas at the time of the announcement will now be required to self-isolate on their return - even those on overnight flights last night.

Similar arrangements will apply to cruise ships that have visited foreign ports, which have additionally been banned from Australian destinations for at least the next 30 days.

The unprecedented moves aim to slow down the spread of the virus, so that the health system is able to cope with the expected spike in hospital admissions.

Non-essential mass gatherings of 500 persons or more have also been banned, impacting a host of events such as the Sydney Easter Show, the Vivid Festival, conferences, exhibitions, concerts and other festivals.

The travel industry is reeling at the announcement, with agents today expected to be dealing with scores of enquiries and cancellations, while airlines cut capacity and other suppliers including tour operators and cruise companies cease operations temporarily - details throughout today’s Travel Daily.