PM Morrison, Opposition leader Albanese wish Indian community 'Happy Diwali'

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Leader of Opposition Anthony Albanese greet members of the Indian community celebrating Diwali in Australia.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison (right) and Australian Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese. Source: AAP Image/Lukas Coch

Highlights

Australia celebrates Diwali on 4 November
The NSW government has urged residents to follow COVID safety protocols
Some states are yet to open borders for travel

Prime Minister Morrison and Opposition leader Albanese have wished all faiths, including Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist, for Diwali.

"My warmest greetings to the people of so many faiths who celebrate the festival of lights," PM said in a statement.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said Diwali is a timely reminder of the power of unity.

"It brings together Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and even some Buddhists. Among its myriad beautiful aspects, Diwali can surely be seen as a celebration of what unites India and Australia: multiculturalism and respect for other religions," Mr Albanese said.

"I would like to acknowledge once again the Australian Indian community and your role in shaping our nation into what it is today. Australia without you is simply unimaginable," he added.

Prime Minister Morrison said residents had been through dark times in the past two years.

"This year, we celebrate Diwali as we draw ever closer to the light at the end of our COVID-19 tunnel.

"That means all the things we've had to forsake – welcoming, gathering, celebration and ceremony – will again be possible. For some parts of Australia, we will be able to celebrate this year, and for the remainder of the country, next year."

New South Wales, Victoria and Canberra have allowed Australian citizens and permanent residents to fly internationally without seeking an exemption or quarantine upon return to the country.

These states have allowed interstate travel as well.

The New South Wales government has urged residents to follow gathering rules during Diwali celebrations despite the new freedoms.

Quarantine and testing requirements are managed and enforced by state and territory governments:

NSW Travel & transport and Quarantine

VIC Travel permit, Overseas travellers and Quarantine

ACT Transport and Quarantine

NT Travel and Quarantine

QLD Travel and Quarantine

SA Travel and Quarantine

TAS Travel and Quarantine

WA Travel and Quarantine

If you want to travel overseas, you may be able to apply online for an exemption. Click here for more information about the conditions to leave Australia. There are temporary measures for international flights that are regularly reviewed by the government and updated on the Smart Traveller website.