Tasmanians have done an amazing job of keeping on top of COVID-19, and it’s critical that we do not become complacent, despite the rollout of vaccines.
As more contagious strains of the virus emerge – at the same time as people in Tasmania are moving and mixing much more freely – we must remain vigilant and ensure that we are ready to rapidly identify all contacts should a new case or outbreak emerge.
We all have a part to play in keeping Tasmania safe, from government, industry, business and community groups, through to every individual person in Tasmania.
The Director of Public Health has determined that, from 1 May 2021, the free Check in TAS app will be the only system used for collecting contact tracing information in Tasmania.
This means that the specific businesses, community groups and event operators currently required to collect contact tracing information under the existing Public Health direction – who haven’t already registered for Check in TAS – need to register and then ensure their patrons can easily use the Check in TAS QR code at their premises, ahead of the 1 May deadline for compliance.
This includes hospitality businesses, as well as places of worship, cinemas, galleries, tourist premises, concert venues, amusement parks, auction houses, hair dresses, beauty treatment premises, spas, swimming pools and others.
I ask every Tasmanian to download the Check in TAS app to your mobile phone so you are ready to use it to check in at the many thousands of locations in our State that will be displaying Check in TAS QR codes.
The contact details of each individual, including everyone in a group, and employees/operators, must be recorded by scanning the Check in TAS QR code on entry to the premises. This simple process takes only a few seconds per patron, and leaves business and event operators free to provide their usual customer service. All the operators and staff need to do is display the QR code and ask: ‘Have you checked in?’
Check in TAS is the easiest and safest way for Public Health to collect accurate, reliable and accessible contact tracing information that can be used to help protect Tasmanian communities from COVID.
There will be public advertising to support this change, and the Department of State Growth will work to educate and support businesses and organisations as we make this change, including one-on-one assistance for businesses, and close engagement with regional chambers of commerce and other peak bodies, as well as enterprise centres.
Keeping on Top of COVID is a priority for the Tasmanian Liberal Government, for our economy, for jobs and for keeping Tasmania open for business. Most importantly, Keeping on Top of COVID is about protecting the lives of Tasmanians. I urge everyone in Tasmania, do your part to help us Keep on Top of COVID.
Further information, including the types of premises, is available online at http://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au
More Media Releases from the Minister for Small Business, Hospitality and Events