SYDNEY -- The state of Western Australia (WA) further tightens its domestic borders amid increasing COVID-19 infections in Australia, introducing new rules for travellers from Queensland and Tasmania.

From 12:01 a.m. Monday, travellers from Queensland have to gain an exemption to come to WA, and then spend two weeks in quarantine, as Queensland has been moved from "low risk" category to "medium risk" by WA.

All approved travellers must be double dose vaccinated, test negative for COVID-19 72 hours prior to departure, and undertake further testing on day 12 after arrival in WA.

WA also moved Tasmania from "very low risk" to "low risk", meaning that travellers have to self-quarantine for 14 days in a suitable premise, and present for a COVID-19 test on arrival (within 48 hours) and on day 12. They also have to be fully vaccinated.

"We are seeing surging case numbers in states with community transmission, and it's expected that case numbers will continue to rise in these jurisdictions," WA Premier Mark McGowan said.

"Queensland has recorded an increase in local cases following the easing of quarantine requirements with COVID-positive jurisdictions." "In order to keep Western Australians safe ahead of our Safe Transition Plan being implemented, border controls will be strengthened with Queensland and Tasmania," he said.

Meanwhile, WA still keeps its border closed to the country's epicenters of the current outbreak, Victoria and New South Wales (NSW), as both states are at "extreme risk".

NSW on Monday reported 2,501 new COVID-19 cases, while Victoria reported 1,302 new cases. Travel from these two states will not be permitted into WA except in "extraordinary circumstances", according to the WA's health advice.

Australia's Northern Territory, South Australia, and Australian Capital Territory are also deemed as "low risk" or "medium risk" by WA.

The hard border of WA is due to be lifted on Feb. 5, 2022, when the state is tipped to hit 90 percent double vaccinated.