Australia has confirmed it will lift a ban next week that has prevented its own citizens travelling overseas without permission, BBC reported. Australians have spent 19 months under some of the world's strictest border rules, in an effort to keep out Covid. From November 1 people will no longer need an exemption to leave the country — provided they are fully vaccinated. Only Australians are eligible but some rules for foreigners will be relaxed soon, the government said. "Before the end of the year, we anticipate welcoming fully vaccinated skilled workers and international students," Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews said in a statement. Prime Minister Scott Morrison had foreshadowed the reopening of Australia's border, saying it was "time to give Australians their lives back". The changes have been met with delight by Australians and others globally. Many have spent long periods separated from loved ones. "But I'll believe the borders have reopened when I see it and hear the stories of stranded Aussies being able to get home uninhibited," Amy Hayes, who lives in England, told the BBC earlier this month.
