australia travel vaccines

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Australia

Australia is a country of lush wildlife and large, modern cities. It offers peculiar opportunities for travellers all across the globe. Australia’s size and endless opportunities make it a popular tourist destination.

If you love nature, want an adventure or if you’re looking to relax in a beautiful city, Australia is a destination that can meet any of your holiday needs.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines For Australia? Should I Have a Passport or Visa for Australia? What Is The Climate Like In Australia? How Safe is Australia? Touring the Australian Outback Hiking Tips While in Australia What Should I Pack for Australia? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Australia

Do I Need Vaccines for Australia?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Australia. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Australia: COVID-19 , hepatitis B , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Excludes the Galapagos in Ecuador and Misiones in Argentina.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present in Outer Torres Strait Islands. All human cases reported from February to April.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

There is a risk of contracting Japanese encephalitis in Australia. The infection is mosquito-borne, meaning all it takes is one bite to become infected. The infection is most common in rural areas.

Dengue is another mosquito-borne disease found in the country. Use of mosquito repellents or netting is highly recommended, especially in urban or residential areas.

Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now .

Should I Have a Passport or Visa for Australia?

A visa is required for entry to Australia. An Electronic Travel Authority visa can be obtained online before arrival. Passports should be valid for the duration of stay.

Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Australia and GOV.UK

What Is The Climate Like In Australia?

The climate in Australia varies by region. It can range from hot and dry in the centre of the continent, to cooler, more temperate weather in the south. Precipitation is sparse throughout the country.

• Sydney – This popular tourist destination has a warmer, drier climate. The summers can be quite brutal on some days, with temperatures reaching the high-30’s. Average summer temperatures are in the mid-20’s and winters going below zero. At the end of autumn and in the winter, Sydney often experiences high levels of rainfall.
• Melbourne – The second largest city in Australia, Melbourne experiences a variety of different weather patterns. Temperatures in the summer have grown warmer, with the hottest day on record at a scorching 45 degrees. Winters in Melbourne are wet and chilly. But, whilst the region experience frost and fog, there is rarely snowfall. Winter temperatures are generally in the high-teens.
• Perth – While summers in this city are dry, there are frequent downpours and thunderstorms in winter months. On average in the summer, temperatures are about in the 20’s. The winter months range do vary, but stay near zero. The average annual rainfall in Perth is about 90 centimeters, and is mostly spread through the winter.

How Safe Is Australia?

One of biggest security and safety concerns in Australia centers on terrorism. The UK government reports that international and internal terrorists and terror organisations have targeted Australia in the past.

The nation does have a terrorist alert system in place which is accessible through the Australian National Security website . The system assesses the likelihood of an act of terror occurring in the country. The threat level is on a scale from “not expected,” all the way up to “certain.” If you are planning to visit Australia, you can monitor the terrorist alert system on their website or by calling the Australian National Security Hotline at 61-1-800-123-400.

UK citizens are not usually targets of criminal activity in Australia. But, robberies, theft and assaults are still common in many of the larger cities.

In popular tourist areas, foreigners are at risk of having purses snatched, pick-pocketing and petty theft. Travellers should also exercise caution when visiting clubs or bars, as bar brawls and fights are fairly common.

If you are not observant or cautious, there is also a risk of having your drink spiked. Always watch your drink and be careful of your surroundings.

Touring the Australian Outback

Australia is revered for ample animal life and abundant nature throughout the country. Many tourists find themselves in Australia to see the diverse wildlife or by hiking through the untouched brush. If you are a nature lover, this is the destination for you.

Before running out into untamed, wild lands, travellers should take the necessary steps to ensure their safety. If you are planning to embark on a tour, ensure you do all your research before jumping behind the wheel of a truck. Consider using a reputable tour service that will take you out themselves.

If you do want to motor on your own, remember that the paths you will take are filled with animals. Some of them may even be dangerous. Creatures such as emus often run alongside the cars and swerve at the last minute. Kangaroos are unpredictable and can jump right in front of your vehicle.

Motoring at night is also not advised, as most accidents occur at this time as it is harder to see.

You should never feed or interact with the animals, as they are wild and can be provoked.

Hiking Tips While in Australia

If you are planning to hike through the wilderness, be careful. Do not interact with any animals. Spider and snake bites can happen, and if they do, seek immediate medical attention. Wearing the protective footwear is the best form of protection.

Ensure you have a hat, sun cream, insect repellent, maps and plenty of water. On hot summer days when the sun is burning and intense, avoid going on a walk. Ensure you know about the trails you plan to hike, as some are more difficult than others. If a walk is more challenging, consider going with a guide and never embark on a hike that is far beyond your ability. Always follow your map and the signs, and stay clear of cliff edges and anything beyond safety barriers.

There is limited mobile service in the outback and other parts of the wilderness. Whether you are going on a tour and taking on a new hiking trail, always ensure someone knows where you will be. It may be difficult to ring anyone in case of an emergency, so someone should always be aware of your location.

What Should I Pack for Australia?

With its wide range of options, preparing for a trip to Australia or the outback can require some extra packing. Consider including these items in your luggage:

• Insect Repellent – Australia has an abundant wildlife population, and that includes many types of insects. Certain mosquitoes may also spread the Japanese encephalitis virus . Packing a repellent with at least 20%-30% DEET will help ward off any potential pests. Pack neutral-colored and loose-fitting clothing that cover your arms and legs for extra protection.
• Tweezers – If you will be out in the wilderness in Australia, you may be at risk for tick bites. Having a pair of tweezers on hand allows you to remove any ticks from your skin. If you are bitten, you should still seek medical attention. But, having tweezers gives you the chance to remove these pests as soon as you find them.
• Sun Cream – The Australian sun can burn easily. Be sure to pack plenty of sun cream to protect yourself from sunburn and to avoid skin damage. To maximise your protection, ensure all your sun cream has at least 30 SPF.
• Sunnies and Hat – The heat in Australia is often harsh. Bring a wide-brimmed hat if you are planning to spend a lot of time outside. You should also pack sunnies to shield your eyes from the bright sunlight.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Australia

If you are in Australia and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British High Commission Canberra Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla Canberra ACT 2600 Australia Telephone: +61 (0)2 6270 6666 Fax: +61 (0)2 6273 3236

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!

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International Vaccination Certificate

Use your International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate to show proof of your COVID-19 vaccinations when you want to travel overseas.

on this page

How to get your international certificate, how to add your international certificate to a digital wallet, if you need help with your international certificate.

The International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate provides a secure record of vaccinations for people travelling internationally. It’s been developed to meet agreed international travel standards.

You can get your international certificate online when you’re getting ready to travel if any of these apply:

• you have a current Australian passport
• you are an Australian dual citizen with a current Australian passport and a foreign passport
• you have a foreign passport with an Australian visa.

You must have had at least one dose of an approved or recognised COVID-19 vaccine. Remember to check both of the following when you’re planning your trip:

• the entry requirements on the website of the country you’re visiting
• the travel requirements for the airlines you travel with.

Your vaccination provider needs to report your COVID-19 vaccinations to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) before you can get your international certificate.

If you’re eligible for Medicare

If you have a current Australian passport, or foreign passport with an Australian visa, you can get an international certificate online.

If your Medicare online account is linked to myGov:

• Sign in to myGov.
• Select Go to Medicare on the Proof of COVID-19 vaccination quick link.
• Select Request a certificate .
• Select your name and then Next .
• Follow the steps to verify your vaccinations and passport details. You may need to update your middle name in the passport details screen to match what is on your passport.

Sign in to myGov

If you don’t have a myGov account or a Medicare online account you’ll need to create them .

Don’t forget to download or print a copy of your international certificate for your records.

If you’re using the Express Plus Medicare mobile app :

• Select Proof of vaccinations from Services.
• Select your name , and then Next .

If you’re not eligible for Medicare

You can use the Individual Healthcare Identifiers service (IHI service) through myGov.

• Select IHI service from Your services.
• Select View proof .
• Select Request an international certificate , then Next .

If your child isn’t eligible for Medicare, you need to either:

• call the Australian Immunisation Register
• visit a service centre .

If you can’t go online

If you can’t go online, you can get your international certificate after you’ve had a COVID-19 vaccination and it’s been reported to the AIR.

To request your international certificate you need to either:

If you’re using the Express Plus Medicare mobile app:

• Select your name , then Next .
• Follow the steps to verify your vaccinations and passport details.
• Select either Add to Apple Wallet or Add to Google Wallet .
• Select Medicare then View proof in Proof of vaccinations.

If your name or details don’t match what’s on the passport details screen, you may need to contact the Australian Immunisation Register .

This information was printed 24 June 2024 from https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/international-covid-19-vaccination-certificate . It may not include all of the relevant information on this topic. Please consider any relevant site notices at https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/site-notices when using this material.

Printed link references

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

COVID-19 and travel

Find out about travel requirements and steps you can take to stay safe.

Domestic travel within Australia

Domestic travel requirements are determined by state and territory governments. Check the websites of local health departments for information about travel to:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia .

Travelling overseas

The Australian Government does not currently have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

COVID-19 however continues to pose a health risk in Australia and overseas. We strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. You should practice good cough and hand hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may have COVID-19 travel requirements in place. Check the requirements of any:

• countries you are travelling to, or transiting through
• airlines or vessel operators.
• Smartraveller website
• Australian Government – international travel information .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is important if you become sick with COVID-19 overseas. Make sure your insurance includes:

• transit destinations
• inclusions for COVID-19
• other add-ons like cruise specific insurance.

Some destinations also require travellers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Cruise travel

Check with your cruise provider or travel agent for up-to-date travel requirements for your ship and destination/s. You can also contact the relevant state or territory government to find out if any requirements apply for your destination.

Outbreaks onboard a cruise

Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other types of travel. COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.

If an outbreak of COVID-19 occurs on your cruise, you may need to:

• quarantine on the ship
• disembark and follow the local rules in the state or territory or country you are in.

Before you travel, check the  Smartraveller advice on cruises . Contact your travel agent or cruise operator for specific information on their COVID-19 safety protocols.

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Australia is ready to be explored as the last state reopens its border

Mar 3, 2022 • 3 min read

Western Australia reopened its borders today © Shutterstock

After nearly 700 days, Western Australia has lifted its hard border and is now permitting travelers to visit.

While Australia  reopened its borders to international tourists last week, Western Australia lagged behind. Labeled the "hermit kingdom" due to its hard border rules, Australia's most remote state largely disconnected from the outside world and kept both domestic and international travelers out in order to keep the virus at bay.

That situation has changed today (March 3) as Western Australia emerges from isolation, becoming the last state to drop its travel entry ban.

“Australia is now finally back together,” Qantas Airways chief executive Alan Joyce said. “This day has been a long time coming.”

Travelers are free to visit without quarantine, but they'll need to abide by slightly different entry rules. While Australia generally requires travelers to be at least double vaccinated to visit, Western Australia wants proof of three doses.

If you're planning a visit to Australia, here's what you need to know about its entry rules.

When can I travel to New Zealand? Opening dates announced for 2022

What vaccines are accepted for travel to Australia?

To be considered fully vaccinated, arrivals must have received at least two doses (including mixed doses) of an approved vaccine which includes AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, Covax, Coronavac, Sputnik, Sinopharm, or Novavax, or one dose of a Johnson & Johnson vaccine. At least seven days must have passed since the final dose.

The rules are stricter for travel to Western Australia. The state requires that travelers are triple-vaccinated, complete a G2G pass before travel and take a COVID-19 test within 12 hours of arrival.

The latest Australia health and safety information

Do children have to be vaccinated to travel to Australia?

Children over the age of 12 are expected to show proof of full vaccination to travel to Australia. Though arrangements are in place in some states and territories to allow unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 12-17 years to travel with a fully vaccinated adult. Children aged under 12 years are exempt.

How to present proof of vaccination to travel to Australia

People who were vaccinated in Australia can present their International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) to airline staff before boarding their flight. Overseas travelers can present their own official vaccination certificates.

Are COVID-19 tests required?

Yes, everyone over the age of five must present a negative PCR test result before flying to Australia. The results can be uploaded online, or presented to airline staff, during the check-in process. The test must be taken no later than 72 hours "before the scheduled departure of your first international flight", according to the Australian Embassy .

Travelers visiting Western Australia must take a test within 12 hours of arrival if entering by air (or 24 hours if not entering by air).

Do arrivals need to quarantine?

Quarantine has been scrapped for fully vaccinated arrivals, though unvaccinated arrivals have to quarantine (except in Western Australia where unvaccinated travelers are banned). Some states and territories have at-home quarantine measures in place for children aged between 12 and 17 who are not fully vaccinated.

To check requirements, see State and Territory Information for travelers .

What airlines are flying to Australia?

Major airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, Etihad, Emirates and Air New Zealand have been ramping up operations since Australia started to reopen in November. Qantas Airways, Australia's national carrier, is operating three weekly return flights between Sydney and London and three weekly return flights between Sydney and Los Angeles to meet "pent up demand". Expect more to announce new schedules .

You might also like: Thailand changes its entry rules again - allowing more tourists to visit without quarantine These Southeast Asian tourist spots are open - here's how to get there Australia's newest national park will protect endangered species

This article was first published Oct 25, 2021 and updated Mar 3, 2022.

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Taking care of your health.

This page gives travel health advice for all Australians.

This page only gives general advice. Always talk to your healthcare providers for advice specific to you and your situation.

Read this page along with our travel advice for your destinations . Also see the Australian Government's travel health advice (HealthDirect).

On this page

• the risk of getting sick overseas
• health checklist before you go
• taking care of your health while you're away
• how the Australian Government can help overseas

The risk of getting sick overseas

Getting sick overseas can affect your health in the short and long term. It can also affect your safety and finances. Medical care overseas can be expensive.

Anyone can get sick or injured overseas. Even if you're usually fit and healthy. Your health is your responsibility.

Health risks

Travel health risks include:

• infectious diseases
• worsening of pre-existing illnesses, including mental health conditions
• injury from accidents
• heat-, cold- and altitude-related illness
• allergic reactions
• illnesses such as stroke or heart attack.

If you return to Australia with an infectious disease , you put other people at risk. Including your family and friends.

See the World Health Organisation (WHO) advice on health risks for travellers .

Financial risks

You could face high medical costs if you get sick or injured.

You can't access Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) overseas. You, your family or travel insurer  will have to pay for your medical care.

• Hospital stays overseas often cost thousands of dollars per day.
• They may need to quarantine you if you've caught an infectious disease. This can cost even more.
• You may not get treatment if you can't pay your bill upfront. Even in a medical emergency.
• You could be arrested if you can't pay for the treatment you've received.

Learn more about  money problems  while you're away.

It isn't just medical care you'll have to pay for. Costs can also include:

• loss of prepaid activities
• cancellation fees for booked activities, flights or accommodation
• extra food and accommodation for people travelling with you while you're being treated
• flight changes.

Health checklist before you go

• Research your destination
• Get travel insurance
• Talk to your doctor
• Prepare your medicines and medical supplies
• Think about what activities you're planning

1. Research your destination

Health risks can vary between countries. Know the risks so you can make informed choices about where you go, what you do there and what preventive measures you can take.

Start by reading our  travel advice for your destinations . Each has a heading for 'Health' that covers some of the key things you need to know.

Then, read travel guides, do online research and talk to people you know who've been there before. For each destination you're travelling to or through, find out about:

• infectious diseases  there
• other types of health risks, such as altitude sickness or injuries from car crashes
• availability and quality of  health care , medical facilities and  medicines
• local attitudes towards  disability , and the availability of accessible accommodation
• local attitudes and laws around  mental  health , and the availability of mental health support
• laws about medication. If your medicine is illegal, you could be  arrested or jailed .

Avoid countries with a higher risk of infectious diseases if a medical condition increases your risk. For example, if you have a suppressed immune system.

If there's a major disease outbreak where you're going, don't go. Wait until the risk has passed. Going will put yourself and others at risk.

If you plan to go to a destination with a ' Do not travel ' warning, you're putting yourself at serious risk. You could die. Take our advice levels seriously. The Australian Government may be unable to help you if things go wrong.

2. Get travel insurance

Health cover is one of the main reasons Australians get travel insurance . It won't prevent you from getting sick or injured. But it can prevent you from suffering financially.

You must pay for all medical care you receive overseas. You can't expect to get subsidised care through your destination's public health system like in Australia.

If you have a terminal illness, you may not be able to get basic travel insurance. But you may be able to find a specialised insurer that covers you for health, accidents or property loss unrelated to your illness. Talk to your insurer to find out.

Make sure you choose a policy that's right for you. Read our advice on how to choose the right insurance . Also see the CHOICE travel insurance buying guide .

3. Talk to your doctor

Your doctor can give you advice that's specific to your healthcare needs.

See your doctor 6 to 8 weeks before you go. You need enough time to act on their advice. Ask for practical advice on how to stay healthy while you're away.

• Ask if it's safe for you to travel. Especially if you're a mature traveller or have a pre-existing condition. Specialised care may be hard to find overseas.
• Tell your doctor where you're going. Ask what unique risks you may face and which countries you may want to avoid.
• Ask what travel vaccinations they suggest. And check that your regular vaccinations are up-to-date.
• If you plan to travel while pregnant , talk to your obstetrician. They can tell you how to reduce risks to you and your unborn child.
• If you're travelling with children , check their childhood vaccinations are current. Ask about any health issues that may affect them where you're going.

Also, ask how to protect yourself against other risks like:

• insect-borne illnesses, such as malaria
• food- and water-borne illnesses
• blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) during long-haul travel
• environmental risks such as altitude or temperature.

Read our advice on preventing infectious diseases . Also see more about immunisation for travel (Department of Health).

4. Prepare your medicines and medical supplies

Take a small first aid kit with you. Include things like:

• headache tablets
• antiseptic lotion
• cotton wool
• waterproof band-aids
• SPF 30-50+ sunscreen
• insect repellent.

If you take regular medicine, plan how to access it while you're away. Ideally, take enough medicine for your whole trip. You may have challenges refilling your script or finding medical supplies overseas.

Your medicine may not be available or legal where you're going. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicine. Find out the local laws before you go.

If you have to buy medicines overseas, check the strength of the medicine and the active ingredients with a doctor or pharmacist there. It may be different to what you're used to. Beware of imitation or counterfeit medicines.

Read our advice about travelling with  medicine and medical equipment .

5. Think about what you're planning to do

The activities you're planning to do overseas can affect your health. Your health also affects what activities you can do safely.

This doesn't just apply to adventurous activities like bungee jumping or skydiving. It also applies to going on a cruise , driving a car or motorcycle , partying , working & and more.

• Research your destination, including safety regulations.
• Look into any tour or service providers you're using. Ensure they have a good reputation.
• Research the activity you plan to do. Find out if it commonly leads to particular health problems, especially injuries.
• Check your travel insurance policy. Basic policies don't cover you for higher-risk activities. You may be surprised by what some policies exclude. Some will only cover your activity if you pay extra.

If you're going overseas for a medical procedure, choose your hospital and surgeon wisely. Read our advice on medical tourism and organ transplant tourism .

Taking care of your health while you're away

You'll enjoy your time overseas more if you don't get sick or injured. You can make choices that reduce your risks while you're there.

• Wash your hands often. Or use hand sanitiser.
• Eat and drink safe food and water.
• Protect yourself against insect bites.
• Use sunscreen and other sun protection.
• Take action to prevent blood clots caused by long-haul travel.
• Take action to prevent illnesses related to heat, cold, and altitude.
• Practice safer sex.
• Wear a helmet and proper protective clothing when riding a scooter.
• Follow road rules and drive defensively. Particularly if you're unfamiliar with the traffic conditions.
• Choose tattoo, piercing and medical providers with high safety and hygiene standards.

Always check the condition of

• safety gear provided for activities
• any vehicles you hire, including scooters and quad bikes.

Check the gear or vehicle before you use it. Don't use it if you're not comfortable with the condition. Go elsewhere.

Get medical advice if you feel unwell overseas or when you get back to Australia. Know how to get medical care where you're travelling.

How the Australian Government can help

The Australian Government is limited in when and how it can help Australians overseas. You're responsible for your own health overseas. It's up to you, your family or your travel insurer to organise and pay for any  medical care  you need.

For more information about how we can help , see the Consular Services Charter.

What we can do

• We can give you or your family a list of local hospitals or doctors that speak English.
• We can give you or your family a list of local lawyers who speak English.
• We can publish some information about health risks and local emergency contact numbers for your  destination .

What we can't do

• We can't pay your medical bills for you or loan you  money .
• We can't recommend hospitals, doctors or lawyers.
• We can't organise or provide you with health care or medicines.
• Learn how to reduce your risk from  infectious diseases .
• Read about travelling with  medication and medical equipment .
• Learn how to look after your  mental health .
• Some medical emergencies in certain countries are covered by  reciprocal healthcare agreements .
• Understand what happens if you die overseas .
• See our advice for  travelling with a disability .
• Learn how to take care of your health at sea if you're  going on a cruise .
• Choose the right  travel insurance  that covers your health.
• Research your planned activities  to reduce the risk of getting injured.
• Know how to get  medical care overseas .
• Understand how and when the Australian Government can help overseas. Read the  Consular Services Charter .
• See  travel health information  and  travel health advice  (Department of Health).
• Read  advice on overseas travel  (Victorian Department of Health and Human Services).
• Read the  Staying healthy when travelling overseas  factsheet (NSW Department of Health).
• See country and disease-specific  advice for travellers  (US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

Related content

No matter who you are, where you're going and what you're doing, get travel insurance. Learn how to choose a policy that's right for you.

Many countries don't have the same access, services or support for people with disabilities as Australia. Learn more about travelling with a disability.

When you go overseas, you may be exposed to a range of infectious diseases. Before you go, learn about the health risks in your destination and see your doctor.

Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

Travel and COVID-19

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If you develop symptoms such as severe shortness of breath or chest pain, call triple zero (000) immediately. Tell the phone operator and the paramedics on arrival if you have COVID-19.

How to avoid catching COVID-19 including getting vaccinated, wearing masks and physical distancing.

Does Australia have COVID-19 travel restrictions?

Travelling to australia.

People travelling to Australia no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

Some countries, airlines and ships may have their own testing, vaccination and face-mask rules. You should check with them before travelling.

During your travel to Australia, you’re encouraged to wear a face mask to reduce your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19.

For more information, visit the Department of Home Affairs website.

Travelling interstate

You can freely travel within and between Australia’s states and territories. However, some remote communities may restrict who can enter and leave them.

Learn more about travelling in Australia:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia

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If you’re planning to travel overseas, you may be exposed to some diseases that vaccinations can prevent. Find out how you can stay safe.

Vaccination is a safe and effective way to stop yourself from catching diseases while you’re overseas. If you have medically at-risk conditions, you may need extra vaccines. Talk to your GP for more information.

Why you need to get vaccinated

Travel vaccinations are important because:

• you may be at risk from disease through contaminated water or food, contact with infected people, cuts, insect or animal bites
• some diseases are more common in certain countries
• they protect you against diseases
• they protect the health of others because you don’t spread diseases
• they protect you from expensive medical bills, if you were to get the disease and get sick overseas
• they give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Diseases you may be at risk of

Some diseases are more common outside Australia, because of this you may be at risk of:

• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Japanese encephalitis
• Meningococcal
• Tuberculosis
• Chickenpox (varicella)
• Yellow fever
• Measles , mumps and rubella .

What vaccines you need

There’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ when it comes to travel vaccinations. Countries have different vaccination requirements, and your needs and travel itinerary will be different to someone else’s. The vaccines you need will depend on:

• where you’re going
• your medical conditions
• your vaccination history
• the season you’re traveling in
• if you’re pregnant or planning to be.

Talk to your GP, travel doctor, or other health provider to find out what vaccinations you’ll need.

When to get vaccinated

Visit your GP or travel doctor 6 to 12 weeks before your trip because:

• you may need multiple doses of vaccines
• your body might need time to develop full immunity
• you may need a booster dose of a vaccine even if you’ve had it before.

If you can’t visit your GP or travel doctor 6 to 12 weeks before, visit them as soon as possible to find out what you need to do.

For more information about vaccinations and travel visit the SmartTraveller website .

COVID-19 and travel

Before you travel overseas, check the latest advice on the SmartTraveller website .

You should also check what you need to do before you return to Australia. Find out more on the Department of Home Affairs website .

Where to get vaccinated

Getting vaccinated is easy. You can get most vaccines from your GP or health provider. Find out where to get vaccinated .

Find out more

For more information about vaccination, contact your health provider or call 13 HEALTH(13 43 25 84) .

Find an vaccination provider

• Call 13 HEALTH ( 13 43 25 84)
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Stay up to date with vaccinations

​Vaccination is important to protect you against diseases.

You should be up to date with all routine vaccinations on the NSW immunisation schedule .

Reducing your risk while overseas

Some travel associated diseases can be prevented by vaccination.

• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your travel plans early so they can give advice. This is because vaccines take some time (usually 2-4 weeks, but up to 6-8 weeks for some vaccines) to provide protection.
• Check what vaccines are recommended for certain areas or travellers. This includes vaccines against typhoid, hepatitis A or rabies. You may also need yellow fever and polio vaccinations, or proof of immunity, for travel to or from certain countries.
• Check if booster doses of any routine vaccinations are recommended before you travel. This includes diphtheria, tetanus, and polio.
• Check you have received two doses of the measles vaccine if you were born during or after 1966. If you haven’t, get vaccinated before you travel – the vaccine is free in NSW but some providers may charge a fee for consultation or to administer the vaccine.
• Discuss travel plans with your GP if your child is aged 6-18 months and is going to areas at high risk for measles. The measles vaccine schedule can be adjusted
• If you are travelling to the northern hemisphere during their winter flu season (usually October to May) you can receive a second flu shot within the same year. Read the Australian Government’s Immunisation Handbook for current flu vaccination recommendations.
• Check you are up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations for all overseas travel.
• Get your mandatory meningococcal and COVID-19 vaccinations as a pilgrim to the Hajj.

Find out more

Routine vaccination.

• Meningococcal disease
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Polio (poliomyelitis)

Vaccines recommended for certain places or travellers

• Hepatitis A
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Yellow fever

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It’s important to be up to date on recommended routine vaccines prior to travel, including Flu, RSV and COVID-19.

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• Global Measles May 28, 2024

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Do I need a Vaccine to travel to Australia?

Please note:

Travelers entering and departing Australia are currently not subject to any COVID-19-related requirements by the Australian Government.

Are Vaccines Required to Travel to Australia?

Like most countries, Australia recommends that travelers arriving in the country on inbound international flights have up-to-date inoculations .

It’s essential to check for government health updates to determine any health risks or increased risks of certain diseases in the country before your trip.

This information changes often, so we recommend checking it on dates close to it. According to the CDC , there are various vaccines you need to get before traveling to Australia and other precautions you may need to take.

Do you require a travel declaration or tests to travel to Australia?

No, travelers visiting Australia do not require a negative pre-departure test, nor do they need to fill out the Australia Travel Declaration.

However, all travelers still need to apply for the Australia Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).

Endemic diseases in Australia

There are some endemic diseases in Australia that travelers will be at an increased risk of contracting while in the county. Since March 2022, this includes Japanese encephalitis, as parts of eastern and southeastern Australia currently have an outbreak.

The country also currently has several infectious diseases within its borders, including chickenpox, influenza, measles, mumps, rubella, polio, shingles, hepatitis B, and yellow fever.

Immunization against these diseases is highly recommended , and officials may request proof of vaccination on arrival in Australia, depending on your nationality and which country you are traveling to Australia from.

There are also a number of non-vaccine preventable diseases that travelers will need to take measures to avoid. These include leptospirosis, dengue fever, Ross River fever, TB and Hantavirus.

Summary Tables of Australia Vaccine Requirements

To help you ensure you will meet all the vaccination requirements to enter Australia, we’ve created two tables to consolidate and summarize all the relevant vaccination information below.

Required travel vaccinations for Australia

Routine vaccinations for Australia

Non-Vaccine Preventable Diseases

If you have more questions about the Australian visa requirements, you can check here .

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Tetanus is contracted through contaminated cuts, bites and breaks in the skin. The vaccination provides cover for approximately 10 years in the majority of patients. It is frequently combined with cover against other diseases such as Poliomyelitis , Diphtheria and/or Pertussis .

Find out more about Tetanus

Hepatitis B is a viral disease which is usually transmitted in a very similar fashion to HIV/AIDS through contact with infected body fluids (eg blood exposure and sexually). This vaccine can be combined with cover against Hepatitis A. The standard schedule for Hepatitis B is to administer the vaccine on days 0, 28 and 180. A more rapid schedule can be used in cases where cover is needed more urgently and this is administered on days 0, 7, 21 to 28 and also 365. Following either course (and not before completion) a blood test can be taken to confirm sufficient antibody protection. Where the correct level of antibodies are showing (>10iu) the vaccination is recognised to provide  cover for life .

Find out more about Hepatitis B

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) is a viral disease transmitted mainly through coughs and sneezes (respiratory route). The vaccine is usually given during childhood schedules but coverage in adults can wane and so a booster dose is frequently recommended during pregnancy ( to protect the unborn child ) and also in those over 50 years of age.

Find out more about Pertussis

Visa-free travel to China welcomed by people wanting to reunite with family

Jenny Zhang has plans to travel to China soon to reunite with her 100-year-old mum, and she has welcomed a move to give Australians visa-free entry for short trips.

"This is the best policy. It will provide great convenience to Chinese people living in Australia," she said.

"The Chinese community is very happy about this news."

The 15-day visa-free travel for Australians was announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Monday, after a formal meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

"We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members — so as to better facilitate personal exchanges, China will also include Australia in its Visa Waiver Program," the premier said.

This change will also save Australians about $110, the current cost for a single-entry tourist visa.

The new visa-free travel scheme is due to come in within the next few months.

China's tourism industry peaked in 2019 at a value of $580 billion and has been recovering slowly, according to Statista.

They had forecast that it could take another five years to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels.

Not everyone happy with move

While Ms Zhang was thrilled with the upcoming change, Ramila Chanisheff, the president of the Australian Uyghur Tangritagh Women's Association said it would not help members of her community.

"Our family members … we can not even talk to them — let alone visit them," she told the ABC.

"Not all of us will be given visas to visit our family members. And if we do, we will be worried about our safety."

Dawa Sangmo, the Chinese liaison officer of the Tibet Information Office in Canberra raised similar worries.

"The visa-free policy is not only an issue that relates to our safety, but a matter that is more beneficial to China and its government," she told the ABC.

There was not much detail in the announcement, but Premier Li did mention it would be "reciprocal", making it easier for Chinese travellers to enter Australia.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the second highest amount of tourists visiting Australia came from China, only behind arrivals from New Zealand, as of April this year.

However, overall, the amount of people travelling out of China is down 40 per cent from pre-COVID levels in 2019, Reuters reported.

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North Macedonia's lawmakers on Sunday approved a new nationalist-dominated government of Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski, whose party won general elections in May banking on voters' anger at the slow pace of European Union integration.