The health and safety of Tasmanians is the Government’s number one priority and our public health officials continue to work closely with the national authorities to ensure a consistent approach in relation to coronavirus.
We are well prepared in Tasmania to respond to the situation and I encourage all Tasmanians to remain calm and vigilant.
I have established an Interdepartmental Committee reporting to Cabinet, which has already met to ensure a coordinated approach to coronavirus across all areas of the Tasmanian Government. We will meet again early tomorrow morning.
We have been closely monitoring the impacts on the Tasmanian tourism industry since group travel from China was suspended last week. While Chinese visitation accounts for around 3 per cent of visitors to Tasmania, making us much less exposed than other parts of Australia, we will work with the tourism industry to support impacted operators as required.
We recognise travel restrictions may have an impact on other Tasmanian businesses as well, and while we are working swiftly to mitigate these wherever possible, businesses with any questions can call 1800 440 026 or visit www.business.tas.gov.au.
At the time of this statement, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in in Tasmania. There is no cause for alarm and the risk to the public remains low. If you do have concerns or further questions, there is a helpline number to call 1800 671 738.
The Australian Government Department of Health has developed some important advice on coronavirus, which is available at the following link: https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov. Information is updated frequently.