Australia's borders remain largely closed to its own citizens, with at least 40,000 Australians stranded overseas, while Hollywood celebrities continue to enter the country for work. The influx of stars such as Zac Efron, Mark Wahlberg, and Julia Roberts has drawn criticism from those unable to return home.
The Australian government has lured film productions with tax breaks, leading to a surge of celebrity arrivals. However, strict travel caps and high costs have made it nearly impossible for many citizens to secure flights. Flights from the UK can cost between A$3,000 and A$15,000, plus mandatory hotel quarantine fees of A$3,000 per person.
Stranded Australians report being bumped from overbooked flights and receiving little assistance from authorities. Margaret and David Sparks, a couple in their 70s, had three flights cancelled before finally returning on a repatriation flight after nearly a year trapped in the UK.
One group of stranded citizens has lodged a human rights complaint with the United Nations, arguing that the government's policies violate their right to return. Sabrina Tiasha, who recently returned from the UK, said, 'No other country has impeded the return of their citizens in this way.'
The government says it has organised more than 100 repatriation flights, but critics argue this is insufficient. On Facebook groups, stranded Australians share tips on securing last-minute flights, advising others to keep bags packed and phones on at all times.
