Family and friends have been reunited at Australian airports after international borders completely reopened for the first time in almost two years.
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There were hugs, kisses and tears after the first international flights touched down at Sydney and Melbourne International Airports on Monday, February 21, 2022.
Vaccinated international tourists can now travel to Australia without an exemption but the unvaccinated still need to be in an exempt category or hold an individual travel exemption to enter.
A live band and hospitality staff with welcome gift bags greeted the first international arrivals in Melbourne on Monday.
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Meanwhile in Sydney, the phrase "welcome back world" was written in large letters on the tarmac, which could be seen from arriving planes.
Musicians, drag queens, a costumed Qantas kangaroo and airport staff also welcomed arrivals as they came through the gate.
Minister for Tourism Dan Tehan greeted some of the first arrivals at Sydney Airport on Monday.
"Australia is the best country in the world and we're excited to be sharing it with the rest of the world again," he said.
"International tourists will come here to see our iconic attractions, sample our world-leading food and drink, learn about our Indigenous culture, and enjoy the Australian way of life."
Australia closed its borders to all non-citizens and non-residents on March 20, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic - meaning it has been one year and 11 months since they were open.
Tourism Australia steps its marketing
Tourism Australia launched a $40 million advertising campaign ahead of international borders reopening.
The "Don't go small. Go Australia" campaign has been targeting tourists from the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Canada and the US, including billboards in Times Square in New York City.
Meanwhile, the "Australia is Yours to Explore" campaign will continue in Singapore, whose citizens where welcomed into Australia earlier thanks to an international travel bubble.
Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said tourism makes up a critical part of the Australian economy.
"There is no doubt the last two years have been very challenging for the tourism industry, and whilst recovery will take a bit of time, operators can't wait to say g'day and welcome back international tourists," Ms Harrison said.
The tourism sector contributes $152 billion to the economy, supports more than 300,000 businesses and employs more than 660,000 Australians, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Shivé Prema
I am a video journalist and host of the Newcastle Herald TikTok account! I spend most of my days filming and editing videos but also like to write articles as well. I'm new to Newcastle, so I like to spend my spare time exploring this city and its many beaches.
I am a video journalist and host of the Newcastle Herald TikTok account! I spend most of my days filming and editing videos but also like to write articles as well. I'm new to Newcastle, so I like to spend my spare time exploring this city and its many beaches.
