Andrews government unveils new permit plan to help Victorians stuck at NSW border return home

Victorians stuck in NSW will be able to apply for new permits to return home, the state government has announced.

Victorians who have been residing in a NSW local government area near the border for at least two weeks from Wednesday, August 25 to Wednesday, September 8 will be able to apply for the permit.

The exemptions will open for seven days from midday on Friday September 10, closing at 6pm on Friday September 17.

Premier Daniel Andrews said Victorians would need to provide proof of their primary residence in the state, evidence of a negative Covid-19 test result 48 hours prior to their arrival in Victoria and that they have received at least their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Applicants will also be required to provide evidence such as receipts and QR check in records that they have stayed within the border region and maintained minimal social contact while in NSW.

“It is heartbreaking to have people locked out of our state but this is an important first step to getting many thousands of Victorians who are stuck in NSW home,” Mr Andrews said.

“But we have to get them home safe and sound. It has to be done properly and these are important first steps towards that.”

Victorians will be able to apply for the repatriation exemption via the Service Victoria website or mobile application and applications will be assessed within 72 hours.

Successful applicants will be required to drive directly home, stopping only for a further test along the way and then isolate at their home for 14 days.

Any other household members are also required to quarantine and compliance checks from authorised officers will help ensure returnees are observing their quarantine obligations.

Health Minister Martin Foley took the opportunity to apologise to those Victorians inconvenienced by the border disruption.

“We do apologise for the discomfort and disruption that is causing many Victorians,” he said.

“As we‘ve seen today, the risk in NSW grows and the last thing we want to do is import that risk.

“Apologies for the frustrations and difficulties it is causing, but we will approach this in good faith and get Victorians home safely and as quickly as we can.”