Travellers from South Korea banned from Australia, extra restrictions for Italy

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced that the government had extended its travel ban on Thursday, with those travelling from South Korea no longer permitted to enter the country amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Speaking during a press conference this afternoon, the PM also revealed that the government has increased its restrictions on travellers from Italy, following an outbreak of the disease in the European country which has so far resulted in more than 100 deaths.

The new restrictions are in addition to the existing ban on travellers from mainland China and Iran, which have also been renewed and will remain in place until March 14.

Anyone who has spent time in mainland China, Iran and South Korea is not allowed to enter Australia for a period of 14 days after they left those countries.

Australian citizens and permanent residents are exempt from the restrictions, however they are expected to self isolate for a period of 14 days after arriving.

While Italy has not yet been added to the travel ban list, despite the country announcing this week that it would be closing all schools and universities until, however travellers arriving from there will be subjected to advanced screening measures.

“If anyone gets sick on board biosecurity and health will meet the plane and manage those people directly,” Morrison said. “On arrival, travellers will not be able to use the smart gates. They will have to be dealt with directly by an officer. They will be asked further detailed questions.

“They will undergo health screening at the airport which involves temperature checks and associated cheques.”

The prime minister confirmed that the current restrictions would remain in place until March 14, however the government will reassess the situation within a week.