Departing Australia in 2021 is unfortunately not as simple as booking a ticket and going to the airport. If you're an Australian citizen or permanent resident who normally lives in Australia, you'll firstly need to apply for an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs to even be allowed to exit Australia. You'll then need to navigate complex COVID-19 testing requirements and entry requirements for your destination (and any transit) countries.

The previous episode of AFF on Air included Part One of an interview with travel agent Alan Lam about travelling during COVID-19. This episode includes Part Two of this interview, which is all about leaving Australia.

You can contact Alan by emailing alan[at]netwavetravel[dot]com or find him on the Australian Frequent Flyer forum posting under the username “madrooster”.

 

Episode contents:

1:30 - Fortnightly news round-up
8:33 - Interview with Alan Lam: Getting an exemption to leave Australia
15:52 - Interview with Alan Lam: COVID-19 testing requirements when travelling overseas
22:45 - Interview with Alan Lam: Things to consider when booking international flights via a third/transit country
25:14 - Interview with Alan Lam: COVID-19 travel insurance
31:16 - Decommissioned airports that have been creatively repurposed

 

Links:

AFF on Air Discussion thread - a dedicated AFF thread to discuss the podcast and ask questions
Travelling to Australia During COVID-19 (Guide)
Travelling to Australia During COVID-19 (Discussion)
Hong Kong's Kai Tak Sky Garden

 

Frequent Flyer Gazette articles referenced in the fortnightly news round-up:

Overview of Australian State & NZ Border Restrictions
Qantas & Virgin to Give Prizes for COVID-19 Vaccination
Last Chance to Fly to Norfolk Island with Qantas Points!
Emirates Restricts First Class Awards, Upgrades
Air Canada Fined $34 Million for Extreme Refund Delays