The health and safety of Tasmanians remains our number one priority as we continue to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
Today’s lockdown of the Greater Brisbane area, and the subsequent border restrictions that are now in place, are a stark reminder that this pandemic is not over and we must remain agile and vigilant as we deal with rapidly changing circumstances.
The new strain of COVID-19 identified as coming from the UK is another challenge, and the best way to respond is to go hard and fast to contain any threat to our State.
Accordingly, we moved immediately this morning to declare Greater Brisbane a high risk area - this covers five council areas – Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Ipswich and Logan.
Any travellers arriving in Tasmania from today who have been in the Greater Brisbane area since 2 January 2021 will need to immediately quarantine for up to 14 days, depending on the circumstances in Queensland across the next three days. If they do not have a suitable premises, they will be placed into a Government quarantine hotel.
I know this is unwelcome news for many, but the health and safety of Tasmanians is paramount and these measures are needed to minimise any risk to the virus spreading into Tasmania.
And despite a vaccine now being on the horizon, it is not a silver bullet and we must continue to remain vigilant to contain the ongoing threat of the virus.
Accordingly, in line with national medical advice, anyone travelling on domestic flights must wear a mask in the airport and when on their flight. This will take effect in coming days, once the details are finalised with other States.
Those travelling through sea port terminals such as the Spirit of Tasmania and on sea voyages, must also wear a mask at all times, except when in a private cabin.
I thank Tasmanians for continuing to do the right thing, and while it is heartening to see a vaccine closer than ever before, there remains no room for complacency.
Continue to wash your hands, cover your coughs and sneezes, if you’re unwell stay at home and don’t go to work, and if you display even the mildest symptoms, please, get a test.