The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has created a hardship program under its Traveller Emergency Loans program to support Australians stranded overseas by the coronavirus pandemic.
Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Marise Payne said the loans were intended to cover temporary accommodation and daily living expenses until travellers can return to Australia.
“Loans may also be available to help vulnerable Australians purchase tickets for commercial flights,” Senator Payne said.
She said applicants would have to meet strict eligibility criteria to access a loan, and only the most vulnerable Australian citizens still overseas would be provided with financial assistance.
“All loans must be repaid upon return to Australia,” Senator Payne said.
“The Government, including through our Embassies and High Commissions around the world, continues to work with airlines and other Governments to help Australians return on commercial flights,” she said.
The Minister said consular officials were also assisting Australians overseas impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“In order to manage and maintain quarantine arrangements in Australia, the National Cabinet agreed to international passenger arrival caps.
“While critical to the integrity of Australia’s quarantine system and the safety of the whole Australian community, the caps have restricted the availability of flights home for Australians overseas,” she said.
Senator Payne said Australians overseas in need of consular assistance needed to register with DFAT.
