Advertisement It may seem like thereâs one rule for the rich and famous wanting to enter Australia or cross state borders, and another for the thousands who have had to sit out their 14-day quarantine in a hotel. In quarantine: Matt Damon employed 24-hour security and people to undertake hospital-grade cleaning. Credit:Getty Images However, in certain limited circumstances, ordinary Australians returning from overseas can also avoid the compulsory hotel stay. Getting an exemption does not exempt you from paying, either. Systems differ between states, with NSW requiring individuals to pay for round-the-clock police monitoring. All states require anyone with an exemption to adhere to strict quarantine protocols, and that can include cleaning, safe food delivery and having secure, separate premises in which to wait out your two weeks.