*Last updated on: 2 June 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Sydney Airport

COVID-19 safety measures at Sydney Airport are designed to ensure maximum safety and hygiene for travellers as they arrive in Australia or depart to allowed destinations. Since COVID-19 has not been completely eradicated at this stage, safety measures like ensuring hand hygiene and social distancing encourage a sense of calm at the airport terminals and ensure that COVID-19 cannot spread from person to person. Let's take a look at what to expect when you arrive at Sydney airport or take a flight out of Australia. Be advised however that Australia's borders are currently closed and entry not permitted, aside from passengers who have stayed in New Zealand 14 days prior to their flight, or specific exemptions.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers upon arrival?

All passengers arriving at Sydney airport from international destinations (other than New Zealand) must undertake a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a hotel or other designated facility. You will be transported to the designated facility after appropriate immigration, customs procedures and a health check. For further information on the arrival process for international travellers please see the Department of Home Affairs website. Federal and State Government agencies regularly release updated information and the airport staff conduct COVID-19 screening assessments, temperature checks and advise passengers regarding self-isolation and social distancing. Security personnel remind people to observe safety measures and hygiene in accordance with signage in the terminals.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers departing?

Australian citizens or permanent residents are currently unable to leave Australia due to COVID-19 restrictions unless you have an exemption. If you have a temporary visa you will be able to make arrangements to return to your home country but only if that country allows entry to international travellers from Australia. Temporary visa holders do not need to apply for an exemption to leave Australia. travellers entering NSW from Victoria and any international region (other than New Zealand) are subject to mandatory quarantine measures. From April 18 2021, you can travel between New Zealand and NSW without quarantine measures if you meet the criteria of the NSW government.

Are screening or PCR testing facilities available?

Mandatory health checks, which entail temperature monitoring and screening questions are in place at the airport upon arrival, where after, travellers are transported directly to a quarantine facility for 14 day quarantine. No compulsory testing is performed, unless the traveller is symptomatic but tests can be done by Histopath at the airport arrivals terminal if necessary or desired.

Is there social distancing signage or mandatory mask/facial covering protocol in effect?

Markers inside the terminals, including bathrooms and food courts and on seating in the waiting area, indicate the appropriate social distancing protocol. There is signage all around the airport indicating social distancing measures and hand cleanliness. You do not have to wear a mask to enter the airport, however, you may wish to do so if you prefer. As safety protocols are different for each airline, please contact your airline prior to flying and ask about their individual safety protocols. They will inform you whether, for example, a mask is required on their flight and how to ensure compliance with other COVID-19 safety protocols that they may have in place.

Has the airport increased its cleanliness?

The airport employs a regular cleaning schedule. Hourly cleaning of high-touch areas using hospital-grade sanitising products is strictly adhered to by cleaning staff. Social distancing measures of 1.5 metres between persons is enforced, using markers on terminal floors and seats. Numerous hand sanitiser units are located where passengers enter and exit terminals and near bathrooms, check-in, and security check-points.

Are the dining and shopping facilities open as normal?

No, the retail, food and beverage outlets are temporarily closed. The Eat & Shop section provides updated information on which stores are open and closed and the current opening times and days.

More information

As COVID-19 safety measures are continually evolving, travellers should consult the Sydney airport website for updated information before they leave. You can also consult the Australian government web page for official information on the COVID-19 response. For details on prices and booking information for flights and accommodation in Sydney visit BudgetAir.