Australians who fly home from India during COVID travel ban face up to five years' jail

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Australians stuck in COVID-ravaged India could face up to five years in jail and heavy fines if they breach a travel ban to return home. The temporary ban begins on Monday and applies to any travellers who have visited India within 14 days of their intended arrival date in Australia.

It is understood to be the first time Australia has banned its own citizens from returning, to the point of there being criminal sanctions for those who make it home.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the new measures were due to an "unmanageable" number of arrivals from the country who have tested positive to COVID-19. Government MP Katie Allen said the risks posed by an influx of positive cases from India was too great.

Breaches of the travel ban could lead to five years' imprisonment, a $66,000 fine or both.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-01/crime-to-fly-from-india-to-australia-covid-federal-government/100108898

[Mickju]

1. They are correct to do this.

Australia has managed the pandemic relatively well and certainly don't need these people coming home and spreading it around.