Victorians trapped in NSW could soon return to quarantine at home, but only if they have spent the past two weeks in a border area.

About 200 Victorians can apply for the new permit exemption category ‘Victorians in the cross-border community’ to return home.

But there are conditions. They must have been residing in a NSW Local Government Border Area for at least the 14 days from August 25 to be eligible.

The trial of home quarantine is part of the national cabinet plan and has already been put in place in South Australia.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Wednesday said home quarantine would be “where we go next” in terms of international travel and is waiting for a timeline from state premiers.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said this was a good opportunity to test the system, which the PM hopes will eventually replace hotel quarantine.

“The first and I think the safest and the best group to do that with are those that have been up on the border for some time,” Mr Andrews said.

Applications for exemptions will be open for seven days from midday on September 10, closing at 6pm on September 17.

Applicants will need to provide proof of their primary residence in Victoria, a negative COVID-19 test result 48 hours before their arrival in Victoria and that they have received at least their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

They will also be required to provide evidence such as receipts and QR check in records that they have stayed within the border region and maintained minimal social contact while in NSW.

Those who are successful will have to drive directly to their home, stopping only for a further test along the way and then isolate at their home for 14 days.

Any other household members are also required to quarantine.
Compliance officers will check on those isolating.

Victorians currently in other parts of NSW or the ACT are not eligible to apply.

The government said further programs are being worked on to potentially get those people home.

-AAP