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Travel Insurance, Coronavirus & the International Travel Warning

Airport runway with airplane

The recent outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) had already thrown many Aussie’s upcoming holiday plans into chaos.  And with the Australian Government advising against any international travel from 18 March 2020, international travel is essentially off the table for the immediate future.

Can I still take out travel insurance?

Put simply, if you take out travel insurance now, you will not be covered for international travel.  This is because the Australian Government has formally issued a Level 4 warning (their highest advice level) advising Australians to not travel overseas at this time.  Regardless of your destination, age or health, the Australian Government is advising ‘do not travel at this time’.

You are also unable to purchase travel insurance to cover you for anything directly or indirectly related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak now that it is a known event.

What if I have already purchased a travel insurance policy?

If you have already purchased a policy for a planned upcoming international trip, please reach out to your travel insurance provider directly. 

It is also worth reaching out individually to your travel providers (travel agent, airline, cruise operator or accommodation provider) to find out what their individual cancellation policies are and whether you are entitled to any refunds.

What if I am already travelling?

If you are currently overseas, the Australian Government advises if you wish to return, then return to Australia as soon as possible by commercial means.

Please reach out to your insurer to find out what your policy may cover in terms of having to amend your travel plans and return to Australia sooner than planned. You will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon returning to Australia.

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