Mark McGowan sets date for WA border reopening

Western Australia will reopen its border to interstate and international travellers at 12.01am on Saturday February 5, more than 600 days after they first shut due to the pandemic.

It’s anticipated that by that date the state will have reached a 90 per cent double dosed vaccination rate.

For double vaccinated travellers staying in the state for more than six days, they must complete a negative PCR test within 72 hours prior to departure, and undertake a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival.

International vaccinated travellers must also complete a negative PCR test within 72 hours prior to departure, undertake a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival and on day six of their stay.

Unvaccinated, or those who have not had an approved vaccine, will still be required to complete 14 days of quarantine.

The G2G system will continue for the time being.

A specific review will be conducted four weeks after the transition date.

The Premier said there will be no capacity or gathering limits after the date, but proof of vaccination will be required at the Crown complex, nightclubs, the four major stadiums and events with 1000 or more patrons.

Mask wearing will only be required for public transport, taxi and ride-share services, airports and on flights.

It will also be required in visitors to hospitals, residential aged care, residential disability care and custodial corrections facilities.

Remote communities including the Pilbara, the Goldfields and the Kimberly will be subject to further health measures if they don’t reach the 80 per cent double dose target by February 5.