Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced fully vaccinated travellers will be allowed into the country from February 21.
The federal national security committee met on Monday to decide when the border could reopen to international tourists.
Under current restrictions, only Australian citizens and permanent residents, their families, and those with certain visas and exemptions are allowed to enter the country.
Speaking to reporters in Canberra, Mr Morrison said he looked forward to welcoming fully vaccinated travellers back to Australia.
“It's almost two years since we took the decision to close the borders to Australia,” he said.
“The condition is you must be double vaccinated to come to Australia. That's thxjmtzywe rule. Everyone is expected to abide by it.
“But if you’re double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back to Australia and I know the tourism industry will be looking forward to that.”
Unvaccinated arrivals will still need to apply for a travel exemption and will have to provide proof they cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.
The Prime Minister said the high profile deportation of Novak Djokovic should serve as a warning to those seeking to bend the rules.
“Your visa is one thing but your entry into Australia requires you also to be double vaccinated,” Mr Morrison said.
“I think events earlier in the year should have sent a very clear message to everyone around the world that is the requirement to enter into Australia.”
