The National Plan to Transition Australia’s National COVID-19 Response is managed by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet. The plan was agreed by National Cabinet on 6 August.
The National Plan sets out four phases to achieve transition.
Each phase will be triggered by both the nation and state or territory reaching vaccination thresholds. This is expressed as a percentage of the eligible population (16+).
The plan outlines proposed measures for the safe return of international students over the following four phases:
Phase one: Expanding commercial trials for limited entry of Student Visa holders.
Phase two: Allowing capped entry of Student Visa holders.
Phase three: Allowing increased capped entry of Student Visa holders.
Phase four: Opening international borders.
State and territory governments in consultation with the Australian Government and education institutions, are leading the return of international students to Australia.
International Student Arrival Plans are currently being developed by some state and territory governments and must be endorsed by the Australian Government before implementation.
Only limited numbers of students, nominated by their education institution will be able to come to Australia under an approved International Student Arrival Plan.
To be considered as part of an International Student Arrival Plan, students should contact their education provider.
All students participating in an International Student Arrival Plan must hold a valid Student (subclass 500) visa.
Students do not need to apply for a travel exemption to enter Australia as part of an International Student Arrival Plan. The relevant state or territory government will apply for travel exemptions on behalf of students nominated under their approved plan.
Education providers should contact their relevant state or territory government to participate in an International Student Arrival Plan.
Information for international students and education providers is available across a range of agencies, including:
Department of Education, Skills and Employment
Study Australia
Study Adelaide
Study NSW
To ensure the health and safety of Australians and international students, arrivals under an International Student Arrival Plan may be paused at any time under health advice.
Students participating in an approved International Student Arrival Plan must expect to stay in Australia for an extended period of time. There is no right of re-entry if students choose to leave. This includes for holidays, course breaks or to visit family.
Students who do choose to leave Australia will need to apply for an individual inwards travel exemption for re-entry. Travel exemptions are only granted in very limited and exceptional circumstances. For more information see travel restrictions and exemptions.