The Western Australian Government has today announced that borders will re-open from 12.01am on Saturday, 5 February 2022.

The Government has confirmed this date is locked in, allowing us to plan for the return of international students to Western Australia and Murdoch University.

Today’s announcement means we will be able to welcome international students back on campus from Semester 1, 2022. We are in the process of communicating with current and prospective international students to provide information about returning to campus for Semester 1 next year.

All international arrivals will be required to return a negative PCR test result 72 hours prior to departure, followed by another test on arrival and a further test on day six. International travellers who are double vaccinated will not be required to quarantine. International travellers who are unvaccinated will be required to quarantine for 14 days.

For domestic travellers, all interstate arrivals aged 12 and over must be double dose vaccinated, unless exempt, with PCR testing requirements dependent on length of travel.

From midnight on Saturday 5 February, proof of vaccination will be required for entry at nightclubs, the Crown complex, the four major stadiums (Optus Stadium, RAC Arena, HBF Arena, HBF Park) and events with 1,000 or more patrons. The Government has indicated other businesses may also choose to have proof of vaccination requirements as a condition of entry to protect their staff and patrons, if they wish.

Mask wearing will be required for public transport, taxis and rideshare services, at airports and on flights, and for visitors to hospitals, residential aged care, residential disability care, and custodial corrections facilities.

Entry will still be restricted to remote Aboriginal communities where necessary and for regions that have lower vaccination rates than the rest of the state, higher levels of restrictions will apply.

The Government’s full announcement can be accessed online.

The safety of our students and staff is our number one priority. It is the responsibility of everyone attending campuses to continue to adhere to our COVID-19 Campus Protocols, so we can continue to ensure they remain safe places for everyone. With restrictions due to be lifted, it is most important that everyone is vigilant and scanning the sign-posted QR codes using the SafeWA mobile app both when entering any relevant campus venues, or when out in the community.

As has been the case throughout this pandemic, please do not come to campus if you feel unwell in any way, and immediately seek advice from WA Health.

Again, thank you to everyone at the University who has worked together to keep us all healthy, safe and connected during these challenging times.