Introduction
Australia has brought forth “travel bubble” plans with Singapore and New Zealand to revive its international education sector.
The unprecedented crisis brought by the pandemic crushed Australia’s multi-billion international education sector. Similarly, the world witnessed travel restrictions, border closures, and global shares taking a hit. Till today, governments around the world are struggling to find ways to boost international tourism and travel. This brought the concept of a ‘travel bubble.’
What is a “travel bubble”?
Travel bubbles are also known as travel corridors. That is to say, it is like an agreement between countries that have been successful to contain the spread of the virus within their respective borders. So, the partnered countries agree to open up their borders and establish approved transit routes. Within the transit routes, they allow people to travel freely without having to stay in quarantine after arrival.
Australia’s “travel bubble” plan for international education
Australia has signaled Singapore and New Zealand as the first potential partners for the travel bubble. This involves two-way, quarantine-free travel, possibly by mid-year.
Australian nationals can return home via Singapore without quarantining. For this, they have to travel on approved transit routes. Also, they have to comply with the public health protocols while in transit. Consequently, this move can play a role in reviving the billion-dollar international education market. Likewise, it can be viewed as the first step towards allowing students from across Asia to return.
Meanwhile, Australian and New Zealand residents are able to travel between the two nations without having to quarantine from 19 April. Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison sees the travel bubble as a “win-win” situation. So, this will allow both countries to boost their economies. We are soon expecting Australia’s Travel bubble plan to be effective
Conclusion
With the wave of the global pandemic, the country’s fourth-biggest export took a plunge. The country saw a massive drop in international student arrival numbers. The industry was worth about A$40 billion in 2019. Australia is desperately looking for ways to revive its international education sector. The “travel bubble” plan has ignited hope for Australian universities and international students to enter Australia.
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