Transtasman loophole closed with emergency law to stop fleeing Aussies

Australians thinking about using NZ as a port to travel overseas could be hit with a heavy fine or jailed. Photo / Michael Craig

Australians looking to use New Zealand as a port to go overseas could be slapped with a massive fine or even be jailed under newly changed laws.

Since the two neighbouring countries entered into the quarantine-free arrangement on Monday, thousands of people have travelled between the two nations.

Some were quick to point out the Kiwi nation could be used as a port to travel further abroad, as New Zealand does not have laws forbidding overseas travel without an exemption like Australia does.

But Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt was quick to put an end to the scheming, amending the Biosecurity legislation to specify that Australians could not use NZ as a port to go overseas.

Under the Act, which was amended on Monday, anyone who breaks the rules can be fined up to $68,000 with the minimum penalty being $6800.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt amended the Biosecurity Act to stop Australian travellers going AWOL. Photo / Getty Images

They could also face five years in prison if found guilty.

However, the changes exclude those who must travel for compassionate reasons, such as where a close family member is seriously ill or has died or for urgent medical treatment.

Australia closed its international borders in March last year in a bid to stop Covid-19 from spreading across the nation.

Residents have been banned from leaving the country without an exemption, with Australian citizens being the only people allowed to enter.

Hundreds of people travelled to Sydney Airport to board the first flights bound for NZ on Monday.

The Trans-Tasman bubble touched down on Monday, but some Australians had their sights set beyond Aotearoa. Photo / Mark Tantrum

At the time, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said starting the trans-Tasman bubble was a "milestone" and a key move in both tourism and economic recovery for both nations.

"Today's milestone is a win-win for Australians and New Zealanders, boosting our economies while keeping our people safe and just in time for ANZAC Day," Mr Morrison said.

"Both countries have done a remarkable job in protecting our communities from Covid and two-way flights are an important step in our road out."