SYDNEY – Australia might announce a further relaxation of its international borders restrictions on Monday in order to allow skilled migrants and students to return, as companies struggle for jobs during COVID-19’s recovery phase.

According to the Australian Financial Review, plans have been underway by the Australian federal government for skilled migrants from South Korea or Japan to be allowed back in the country before Christmas.

Australia’s two largest cities, Sydney & Melbourne, have opened their borders to all international travelers without quarantine since the start of the month. But, this was only for permanent residents and returning citizens.

The report quoted Josh Frydenberg, Federal Treasurer as saying that “safely reopening borders to skilled migrants or overseas students will accelerate economic recovery and help address labour shortages.”

This potential move is possible just one day after international students from Singapore arrived to the country as part of a travel bubble that was created between two countries.

Australia’s borders were closed in March 2020 to stem the spread of pandemic. Only residents could enter. They had to spend two days in quarantine at their expense.

These border regulations, together with quick lockdowns, and strict social distancing, have allowed Australia to maintain its coronavirus levels far below other countries. Australia has around 200,000 confirmed cases and 1,948 fatalities.

The state of Victoria is seeing the most new cases. On Monday, 1,029 people were infected. New South Wales (home to Sydney) reported 180 cases. The COVID is not present in other states and territories.