As you are aware yesterday the Australian Government announced the Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus (the COVID-19 Plan) which will guide the Australian health sector response.
While in Tasmania, as at today, we do not have any positive results from coronavirus testing, in light of yesterday’s actions by the Australian Government, I have requested that we take the proactive steps to stand up the State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC). This will effectively transition the whole of government Coronavirus InterDepartmental Committee, to the SEMC, which plays a vital role in ensuring the State continues to be well prepared.
The Director of Public Health and the Commissioner of Police have agreed to continue effective coordination of Tasmania’s response arrangements. Therefore, while the Department of Health, which includes Public Health, will remain the lead agency, the SEMC will be used as the vehicle to maintain overall situation awareness, monitor and coordinate agencies and to ensure that the State is well prepared should the Commonwealth Government move beyond the initial phases.
This new arrangement will commence from next Monday, with the Cabinet to receive a full briefing from the State Emergency Management Controller, Police Commissioner Darren Hine, Chair of the SEMC.
The Ministerial Committee for Emergency Management (MCEM) will also be activated to ensure a whole of government approach.
Coordination and communication at the national level will be particularly important as part of our ongoing response.The immediate steps being taken as part of the Initial Action stage of the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 Plan are –
The Tasmanian Department of Health has also established an Incident Management Team lead by Public Health Services with membership including the Department of Health, Tasmanian Health Service, Primary Health Tasmania and other health agencies. This team has already made good progress and will continue to do so.
We recognise travel restrictions may have an impact on some Tasmanian businesses, and encourage anyone with any questions to call 1800 440 026 or visit www.business.tas.gov.au. 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.