While the delay to the reopening if international borders from 1 December until 15 December will be disappointing and disruptive for business, this decision is appropriate until heath authorities can ascertain the threat posed by the Omicron variant.
“The two-week pause on international arrivals is a regrettable but necessary decision,” ACCI chief executive Andrew McKellar said.
“Delaying the arrival of skilled migrants and international students is a sensible precaution while health authorities assess the efficacy of the vaccines in the face of the Omicron variant.
“This announcement makes clear that the pandemic is far from over. With more variants likely in the future, the Federal and state governments must ensure systems are in place to respond to new strains.
“As businesses are only just beginning to recovery from the most recent round of lockdowns and restrictions, they cannot afford to wait any longer than is absolutely necessary to begin the reopening of our borders. Bringing skilled migrants, international students and other visa holders into Australia is critical to boosting our economic recovery.
“It’s critical that any future measures are targeted and proportionate, ensuring that Australia’s borders reopen and stay open. Imposing restrictions any longer than is absolute necessary will increase uncertainty and could derail our post-pandemic recovery.
