Record testing yesterday has so far revealed no further cases of COVID-19, and we thank Tasmanians currently in lockdown for helping contact tracers to do their job.
I recognise this snap three-day lockdown is not easy, with businesses, events, and lives disrupted.
By taking early action we aim to protect lives and relieve restrictions by Monday, 18 October at 6:00pm.
For Tasmanians who are forced into 14 days of quarantine and can't earn an income because they must self-isolate, quarantine, or care for someone who has COVID-19 there is support available through the $1,500 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.
Further, we have extended the Pandemic Isolation assistance grants, currently available for those who are directed to have a test or are placed into 14 days quarantine, to also be available to help people who have lost income as a result of the stay at home order currently in place in Southern Tasmania, and who meet the criteria. Financial assistance of $250 per adult and $125 per child capped at $1,000 per household is available.
For information on these grants, please call the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738.
We will also continue to consider any further support required for businesses, and Business Tasmania will also be open across the weekend and can be reached on 1800 440 026.
Regarding the Women’s BBL match, the match will proceed without crowds, under strict COVID-safe protocols with players operating in a COVID bubble, in line with other jurisdictions.
Our aim is to not prolong this lockdown. To not be like NSW or Victoria, and to make this as short and sharp as possible.
That said, it is very disappointing that it has taken one individual to do the wrong thing, and leave the heavy lifting to everyone else.
I have expressed to Tasmania Police that the sum of the fine is simply not in line with the crime.
This is a breach that has brought southern Tasmania to a standstill, and I have requested Tasmania Police consider what other action can be taken against this person, as well as anyone who was an accomplice to his escape.
I also urge all those in lockdown to help our contact tracers by limiting your movement.
Please, follow the rules, exercise good hygiene practices, get tested – even with mild symptoms – and don’t wait to vaccinate.