From September 9, the government removed the mandatory wearing of masks on domestic flights. The requirement to wear a mask on international flights to Australia was also removed, effective from the same date.
Prior to the announcement, several airlines had already dropped the mask requirement on international flights leaving Australia. The requirement for masks was also dropped inside Australian airports.
For a country that had one of the world’s strictest travel restrictions throughout the pandemic, the announcement is one of the last measures towards easing travel.
With the slowing down of cases and vaccines widely available, the fear of catching the virus appears to be thin.
Nonetheless, it is an announcement that has been met with mixed feelings. For many, it is a sign of relief as they believe their freedom has been restored. Others are relying on their own reasoning to protect themselves given that the pandemic is not fully behind us.
Reema Maisnam, a young mother is travelling to India in a few week’s time. She says, “Being parents to young children, I would prefer wearing the mask on a flight. If I were to just to think for myself, then I am good without a mask.”
Andre de Doncker says even though the mask mandate on flights is off, he would not take a risk. “My colleagues have all got COVID during air travel. You got to treat it seriously. I have got away the first time with COVID, but don’t want to take any more risks.”
Sudeshna Deb Barman, a doctor in regional Victoria, says, “I don’t know if I will ever be comfortable being inside a closed space with lots of people not wearing masks, especially inside aircrafts.” She cites a recent instance of an outbreak inside her clinic and undergoing five consecutive days of RAT, not to mention the added anxiety that came with it.
There are others who feel that this removal of mask mandate is a way of allowing people to behave in a manner that is contrary to the best public-health advice and science.
The government is, however, encouraging travellers to consider wearing a mask to reduce their personal risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler encourages everyone travelling overseas “to be mindful of the continuing risk of Covid-19 and to take personal precautions to stop the spread and stay safe”.
Airlines are also encouraging people with subtle messaging. On its website Qantas says, “You’re no longer required to wear a mask on Australian domestic flights. We’ll continue to make masks available onboard and appreciate some customers may wish to wear them.”
Some insists the issue is all about freedom. Wearing of mask now boils down to individual responsibility when the pandemic is a collective responsibility.
The pandemic has helped many inculcate habits hard to shed. Wearing a mask is one of them. Which is people like Maisnam beleive it is a good habit and a protective measure informed by science.
“This virus is not over, there will be more variants. Global health experts are pointing time and again to the fact that a large percentage of infectious particles are trapped when wearing a mask. And this stops the spread of the virus at the source. So, why take a risk?” sums up Maisnam.
And here’s what experts say. If you are concerned about catching the virus, definitely wear a mask. They recommend the well-fitting N95 mask during the entire flight. Stay up to date with vaccination too.
The Indian Sun acknowledges the support of the Victorian Government.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
