Western Australia to open border to MILLIONS in NSW but Victoria is locked out

Western Australia will open its border to all of New South Wales starting on Tuesday, as the nearly Covid-free state is finally classed as ‘very low risk’.

But Victorian residents, about to enter a ‘circuit breaker’ five-day lockdown, will now be locked out of the state.

WA premier Mark McGowan confirmed the announcement on Friday afternoon, declaring a hard border with Victoria for 72 hours will be introduced from 6pm. 

‘We had to act quickly…. and it may well extend depending on what happens in Victoria,’ Mr McGowan said.

‘If they get it under control, it may be only in place for 72 hours but if they don’t I’m sure the Chief Health Officer will provide updated health advice.’

There are now 13 coronavirus cases linked to Melbourne’s Holiday Inn after five new cases were confirmed. 

As a result, Victoria is now deemed a ‘medium risk’ state.

The border closure announcement means that only exempt travellers from Victoria will be allowed into WA. 

And before entering, they must undergo a mandatory Covid test before beginning two weeks of hotel quarantine.

NSW has been reclassified as low risk, finally allowing quarantine-free travel between the two states.

From Tuesday at 12.01am, travellers from NSW will be allowed to enter WA, pending no further outbreaks. 

With WA on track to record 14 days of no cases this Sunday, McGowan feels it is the opportune time to return Perth to a ‘normal’ way of life.   

‘The Chief Health Officer has advised that full 14-day incubation period is on track to run its course with no indication of any community transmission,’ he said.

‘Based on the latest health advice, from midnight on Saturday night, the transitional restrictions will end.’

McGowan also declared as of Sunday morning, makes will no longer be compulsory for residents to wear, according to The West Australian.