WA government to tighten COVID-19 border controls with Queensland from Monday
Western Australia will tighten border controls with Queensland from Monday, when visitors to that state will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
Key points:
- High risk level comes after community spread of COVID-19 in Queensland
- It is also in response to the planned relaxation of Queensland border regulations on Monday.
- Western Australian government says cautious approach is needed
Queensland has moved from a “very low risk” jurisdiction to a “low risk” jurisdiction under Western Australia’s Controlled Border Agreements.
The Washington state government said the high level of risk was due to the “growing situation” in Queensland, where the virus has spread in the community.
The move is also the result of Queensland’s plan to introduce relaxed quarantine requirements with COVID-positive jurisdictions from Monday.
In a statement, Premier Mark McGowan said the increased level of risk was needed as some cases in Queensland have an unknown source.
“With the community spread now experienced in Queensland and its decision to ease border controls and quarantine provisions with COVID-positive jurisdictions, in the midst of Omicron, we need to be cautious and tighten our border controls with Queensland, â€he said.
“It will annoy people, but we know that border controls are working to keep WA safe and effective in managing the risks of COVID-19 entering the community, while we do not have levels yet. sufficient immunization coverage. “
Border changes increase risk of Omicron spread, health minister says
Health Minister Roger Cook said travelers from COVID-positive jurisdictions will be able to enter Queensland from Monday without having to self-quarantine.
“This is likely to lead to increased community spread of the Omicron variant,†Mr. Cook said.
“We have seen the number of community cases increase in recent days across Australia.
“Western Australia does not have COVID in our community and we want it to be until we have better immunization coverage.
Travel from Queensland will only be allowed for those who are double-dose vaccinated, can show up for a COVID test on arrival and on day 12, and can self-quarantine in an appropriate location for 14 days.
Anyone who has arrived in Western Australia since December 1 and has been at an exhibition site in Queensland is required to self-quarantine for 14 days and get tested.
More soon.
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