Source: SBS News — 2026-05-11
Not legal advice. Always consult a MARA-registered migration agent for your specific situation.
What changed
Four Australians and one permanent resident are returning from a hantavirus-affected cruise ship and must quarantine for three weeks near Perth; French and Spanish passengers already tested positive for the virus.
What this means for you
This story does not directly impact most 482, 485, 189, 190, or 500 visa holders. However, if you are a temporary visa holder who was on this cruise, quarantine may temporarily affect your work or study compliance — contact your employer/institution and the Department of Home Affairs immediately to discuss arrangements.
Action items
- [ ] If you were on the cruise: notify your visa sponsor/education provider within 24 hours
- [ ] Contact the Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) about quarantine impact on visa conditions
- [ ] Request formal evidence of quarantine dates in writing for your employer/university records
Who is affected
Only temporary visa holders who were passengers on the affected cruise ship; not relevant to visa holders in normal circumstances.
Visa types: general Audience: skilled-workers