SYDNEY (Reuters), Australia has reopened all international borders to coronavirus-vaccinated travellers. It did so after almost two years. Hundreds were reunited in family and friends, and tourists returned.

As the nation’s tourism and hospitality industries recover after being hampered by COVID-19 restrictions, more than 50 international flights will land in this day.

It is a party here, music playing and smiles on everyone’s faces. ” Tourism Minister Dan Tehan stated to ABC, broadcasting from Sydney’s airport, that it was a party. He welcomed tourists with Vegemite (an essential Australian product) as well as Koala toys.

Tehan predicted a rebound in tourism, with Qantas Airways Ltd planning to fly more passengers than 14,000 into Australia.

The country’s largest industry, tourism is worth over A$60billion ($43billion) and accounts for about 5%. The sector suffered after March 2020 saw Australia close its borders.

Peter Shelley (Managing Director Australian Tourism Export Council) stated, “This day is important for our industry. It’s the first, and most important step towards getting Australian tourism back on track.”

Australia, once an advocate of COVID suppression strategy, has shifted from fortress-style control and incessant lockdowns since last year. Instead, Australia began to live with it after receiving higher vaccine levels. Since November, Skilled Migrants, International Students and Backpackers are allowed to Fly into Australia in a Staggered Reopening Exercise.

Australia’s Omicron coronavirus strain appears to have reached its peak, with hospital admissions falling steadily over the past three week as the borders are fully opened. Around 2.7 million cases of Omicron have been confirmed in Australia since late November, when the Omicron virus emerged. Total deaths stood at 4,913.

($1 = 1.3959 Australian dollars)