What's the government response timeline for Australia?

“People who arrive in Australia from an international flight with these symptoms should alert their airline, or a biosecurity officer if they have disembarked.” If people start getting symptoms in the week after arriving in Australia, they should see a doctor or go to hospital if they are very ill. If they have travelled to Wuhan, they should call ahead to ensure others aren’t put at risk. https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/first-confirmed-case-of-novel-coronavirus-in-australia

25th January- Information at ports after first cases confirmed, but no national campaign as yet. Information is on display at all major international ports around Australia, with instructions on what to do if travellers have symptoms or if symptoms develop. https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/first-confirmed-case-of-novel-coronavirus-in-australia

First positive test of a man from China confirmed in Victoria - testing was based on symptoms and travel history (criteria). https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/first-confirmed-case-of-novel-coronavirus-in-australia

First case in Australia confirmed on 25 January 2020. Health Minister's announcement says contact tracing will be undertaken. https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-greg-hunt-mp/media/first-confirmed-case-of-novel-coronavirus-in-australia

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has advised Australians not to travel to China due to the "escalating threat" of the virus, while asking those who have returned from the country to self-isolate for 14 days. People who are not Australians, permanent residents or their families AND who have been in China cannot enter Australia. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-02-01/australians-told-not-to-travel-to-china-due-to-coronavirus/11920742

Australian Government organises the evacuation of first plane load of Australians from Wuhan, who then spend two weeks in quarantine: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-51352145

Messaging changed from focusing on people who had been to China, to general public messaging. See, for example: https://www.facebook.com/healthgovau/photos/a.991516417558722/2904944246215920/?type=3&theater

Communicable Diseases Network Australia (CDNA) issues interim guidelines, including comprehensive contact tracing ("contact management"); https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/cdna-song-novel-coronavirus.htm; https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/7A8654A8CB144F5FCA2584F8001F91E2/$File/2019-nCoV-interim%20SoNG-v1.5.pdf

National guidelines updated: https://www1.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/Content/cdna-song-novel-coronavirus.htm

Ban on arrivals from Iran. People who have been in Iran must spend 14 days in a third country before seeking to enter Australia. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-02-29/australia-announces-iran-travel-ban/12013884

First cases of community transmission recorded. News article quotes NSW state Health Minister saying contact tracing will be undertaken: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/02/coronavirus-first-cases-of-community-transmission-confirmed-in-australia

This article criticises the government for being slow to engage a creative agency to undertake a campaign. It says a spokesperson for the Health Minister "conceded" that the national campaign began on 3 March 2020. [NB government put out public health messages before this date] https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/16/australian-government-did-not-commission-coronavirus-campaign-until-a-month-after-first-case

"Most Australian states are still conducting testing as needed. If a suspected case is found, the state health department will undertake contact tracing and testing as required, while possible cases who self-identify based on travel history are tested at general practices or in emergency departments." This indicates that on March 3, contact tracing was done for every confirmed case throughout Australia; https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/should-australia-be-testing-more-broadly-for-the-c

Australia puts travel ban on South Korea. Source: https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/australia-puts-travel-ban-on-south-korea-enhanced-screening-on-italy-20200305-p54770.html

Statement by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee on 8 March 2020: "At this time the AHPPC consider that public events should proceed, but strongly recommend that people that are unwell with cough or fever or other respiratory symptoms should not attend public events or gatherings. This is particularly so for people who have recently travelled from overseas." Archived: https://www.health.gov.au/news/australian-health-protection-principal-committee-ahppc-coronavirus-covid-19-statement-on-8-march-2020-0

Australia bans travellers from Italy https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/australia-extends-coronavirus-travel-ban-to-italy-20200311-p548x4.html

https://www.dss.gov.au/about-the-department/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-support.Government announced it will provide an Economic Support payment of $750 to approximately 6.8 million existing payment recipients and concession card holders that are eligible as at 12 March 202

Recommendations on public gatherings to come into effect as of 16 March https://www.pm.gov.au/media/advice-coronavirus

Prime Minister's statement of March 13, 2020 forecasts that the government will "provide public advice against holding non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people from Monday 16th March 2020." Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/advice-coronavirus

Differs by state/territory. State of Queensland has comprehensive contact tracing; further information: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/take-action/contact-tracing

Advice applies to all of Australia. Based on the expert medical advice of the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC), Commonwealth, State and Territory governments have agreed to provide public advice against holding non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people from Monday 16th March 2020. The recommendation to advise against non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people is precautionary and designed to reduce community transmission of COVID-19 in Australia. https://www.pm.gov.au/media/advice-coronavirus

Prime Minister's statement of 16 March 2020: "The National Cabinet also endorsed the advice of the AHPPC [Australian Health Protection Principal Committee] to further introduce social distancing measures. This includes the requirement that non-essential, organised public gatherings of more than 500 people should not occur." Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/coronavirus-measures-endorsed-national-cabinet

All overseas arrivals to self-isolate for 14 days: https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-what-you-need-to-know_2.pdf

See criteria at: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19

Some private schools closing: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/mar/17/coronavirus-school-closures-dozens-of-australian-private-schools-move-to-online-learning

The National Cabinet has accepted the advice of the AHPPC that schools should remain open at this time: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures

The National Cabinet has accepted the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) advice that non-essential indoor gatherings of greater than 100 people (including staff) will no longer be permitted from Wednesday 18 March 2020. https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures This does not apply to essential activities such as public transportation facilities, medical and health care facilities, pharmacies, emergency service facilities, correctional facilities, youth justice centres or other places of custody, courts or tribunals, Parliaments, food markets, supermarkets and grocery stores, shopping centres, office buildings, factories, construction sites, and mining sites, where it is necessary for their normal operation (although other social distancing and hygiene practices may be required in these settings).

Prime Minister's statement: "The National Cabinet has accepted the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) advice that non-essential indoor gatherings of greater than 100 people (including staff) will no longer be permitted from Wednesday 18 March 2020." NB No change to the restriction on outdoor gatherings, at this point, a maximum of 500 people. Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures

National Cabinet agreed that public transport is essential and that AHPPC advice should apply in relation to public transport (trains, trams, buses, ferries), taxi and ride share vehicles and transport of vulnerable populations, with particular attention given to cleaning and hygiene. National Cabinet agreed that domestic air travel is low risk. The issue of where people are travelling to and sensitive locations where travel should be restricted, will be developed with advice of states and territories. Source: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures

Advice to all Australians - regardless of your destination, age or health - is do not travel overseas at this time. This our highest travel advice setting – Level 4 of 4. We also now advise Australians who are overseas who wish to return to Australia, to do so as soon as possible by commercial means. Commercial options may quickly become limited. Anyone arriving in Australia from overseas, including Australians citizens and permanent residents, will be required to self-isolate for 14 days from the date of arrival. https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures

Tasmania announces border controls from 21 March - arrivals to self-isolate for 14 days: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/mar/19/tasmania-effectively-closes-borders-to-mainland-australia-in-response-to-coronavirus

Australia is closing its borders to all non-citizens and non-residents. The entry ban takes effect from 9pm AEDT Friday, 20 March 2020, with exemptions only for Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family, including spouses, legal guardians and dependants: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/border-restrictions

Indoor gatherings of fewer than 100 people and outdoor gatherings of fewer than 500 people may proceed provided there is sufficient space for social distancing. Space requirements set out at: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-0

PM statement of 19 March 2020: Australia is closing its borders to all non-citizens and non-residents. The entry ban takes effect from 9pm AEDT Friday, 20 March 2020, with exemptions only for Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family, including spouses, legal guardians and dependants. Archived statement: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/border-restrictions

Report in financial review details 24/7 NSW operation to comprehensively contact trace. However, a report quoted (but unfortunately not properly linked) states that 14 percent of diagnosed cases could not be traced to previous contacts, implying that contact tracing was at least not entirely exhaustive. Since from this report, every confirmed case will still be contact traced, I leave the coding at 2, but future evidence of a more limited approach might suggest a downgrade to 1. http://www.afr.com/policy/health-and-education/inside-coronavirus-hq-the-virus-hunters-trying-to-stem-an-outbreak-20200319-p54bs5

Prime Minister says schools remain open, but parents can keep children at home if they wish. School closures announced in some states (Victoria, ACT, and forecast in NSW). Victoria: On Sunday 22 March, the Premier announced additional steps to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19), including bringing forward the school holidays in Victoria to commence from Tuesday 24 March. Early childhood education and care services, TAFE and training providers will remain open. ( https://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/coronavirus.aspx). Australian Capital Territory schools to be pupil-free from 24/3/20: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-23/coronavirus-covid19-how-canberra-schools-will-operate/12080248

On 22 March 2020, the eligibility criteria for this payment was extended to new payment recipients who are eligible for their payment or card between 12 March 2020 to 13 April 2020 (inclusive). As long as someone had lodged a claim for an eligible payment and was eligible for that payment by 13 April 2020, they should have already received this economic support payment via Services Australia or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. Payments were made from 31 March 2020 and would have been received by the majority of recipients by 17 April 2020. https://www.dss.gov.au/about-the-department/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-support

From PM statement of 22/3/20: The following facilities will be restricted from opening from midday local time 23 March 2020: Pubs, registered and licenced clubs (excluding bottle shops attached to these venues), hotels (excluding accommodation) Gyms and indoor sporting venues Cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs Restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery Religious gatherings, places of worship or funerals (in enclosed spaces and other than very small groups and where the 1 person per 4 square metre rule applies). Archived statement: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-220320

Case of the Ruby Princess and response thereafter (including calling in ADF to help with contact tracing) strongly implies that the current tracing mechanisms in place are not entirely comprehensive. Hence this indicator will be downgraded to 1 (limited contract tracing); https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/24/anatomy-of-a-coronavirus-disaster-how-2700-people-were-let-off-the-ruby-princess-cruise-ship-by-mistake

Victoria brings school holidays forward to 24 March; https:/www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/schools-closed-from-tuesday-in-drastic-bid-to-curb-coronavirus-spread-20200322-p54cpw.html?js-chunk-not-found-refresh=true

The Prime Minister specifies that certain gatherings are to be no more than 10 people, including funerals and fitness training sessions, and weddings should be no more than 5 people. Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-24-March-2020

Prime Minister's statement of 24 March: "Australians should stay at home, unless shopping for essentials, travelling to and from work - where you cannot work from home, going to school and exercising. Keep visitors to your home at a minimum. In outdoor spaces do not congregate in groups." Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-24-March-2020

Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia enforce border controls: arrivals from interstate required to self-isolate for 14 days: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-24/nt-border-restrictions-begin-amid-coronavirus-crisis/12086306 and https://www.thechronicle.com.au/news/south-australia-closes-borders/3978380/ and http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/3/24/border-control-slows-virus-spread, and https://www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/coronavirus-covid-19-state-of-emergency-declarations.

In addition to a ban on arrivals of non-citizens or non-residents or their families, there is now a ban on Australians travelling overseas, except on compassionate or humanitarian grounds: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-24-March-2020

Media report of 25/3/20: This week, Victoria brought forward its Easter holidays, NSW encouraged parents to keep children at home and ACT schools went online. Many private schools have also closed of their own accord. Archived article: https:/www.theage.com.au/politics/federal/really-unusual-times-how-school-closures-will-affect-students-20200324-p54der.html?js-chunk-not-found-refresh=true

Prime Minister's statement of 24 March 2020: "Australians should stay at home, unless shopping for essentials, travelling to and from work - where you cannot work from home, going to school and exercising." Specific types of businesses are required to close, e.g. beauty parlours, swimming pools, gyms. Full list in archived PM's statement: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-24-March-2020

On 25 March 2020, a 6 month temporary debt relief program came into effect to support individuals and businesses. The temporary debt relief measures include: Six month temporary debt protection Changes to bankruptcy notices Impacts to people who are currently bankrupt https://www.afsa.gov.au/debtrelief

Report from 26/3/20: [State] Premiers have announced a series of different measures for schools across the country, with some calling on parents to keep children at home if they can. Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia will keep schools open for the children of essential workers but will begin to implement pupil-free days in the coming weeks. Next week, schools in Queensland will be student-free, except for the children of essential workers. WA Premier Mark McGowan asked parents to keep children home if they could, but said schools would remain open next week. Classes will move to online learning in the second term in South Australia. Next week is set to be the final week of regular term in the Northern Territory. But from Monday, April 6 to Thursday, April 9, schools will be pupil-free. Schools will close for an early end-of-term break from next Friday in Tasmania before shifting to distance learning. Schools in Victoria have already started their school holidays after Premier Daniel Andrews brought the break forward to begin on Tuesday. For now, NSW schools remain unaffected but Premier Gladys Berejiklian has told parents they should keep children at home if they can. Archived: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-26/schools-which-states-are-going-pupil-free-coronavirus/12093340

To be tested, you must meet one of the following criteria: You have returned from overseas in the past 14 days or spent time on a cruise ship, and you develop respiratory illness, with or without fever You have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case in the past 14 days and you develop respiratory illness, with or without fever You have severe community-acquired pneumonia and there is no clear cause (including patients who have already been hospitalised for this condition) You have a fever or acute respiratory infection and you work in the healthcare or aged/residential care sectors, or you have spent time in a location that's defined by a state or territory as having an elevated risk of community transmission, or you have spent time at a "high-risk" location where there are two or more linked cases of COVID-19, such as an aged-care home, a remote Aboriginal community, a correctional facility, a boarding school, or a military base (including Navy ships) with live-in accommodation. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-27/coronavirus-covid-19-testing-criteria-eligibility/12097990

This Sydney Morning Herald article unpicks the "messiness" of school closures in Australia, particularly in the states of Victoria and NSW. It includes references to some private schools closing from as early as March 15. Archived: https://www.smh.com.au/education/the-messiest-part-the-inside-story-of-how-nsw-schools-responded-to-covid-19-20200326-p54e67.html?js-chunk-not-found-refresh=true

On 29 March the National Cabinet agreed to further limit public gatherings and events. Any non-essential events cancelled, limits on who can go to weddings and funerals. See Health Department website, archived: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/how-to-protect-yourself-and-others-from-coronavirus-covid-19/limits-on-public-gatherings-for-coronavirus-covid-19#essential-gatherings

On 29 March the National Cabinet agreed to further limit most indoor and outdoor non-essential gathering to 2 people. See Health Department website, archived: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/how-to-protect-yourself-and-others-from-coronavirus-covid-19/limits-on-public-gatherings-for-coronavirus-covid-19#essential-gatherings

PM's statement: "National Cabinet’s strong guidance to all Australians is to stay home unless for: shopping for what you need - food and necessary supplies; medical or health care needs, including compassionate requirements; exercise in compliance with the public gathering requirements; work and study if you can’t work or learn remotely." Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/national-cabinet-statement

Australians arriving back home from overseas required to spend 14 days in quarantine, usually in a hotel, in the city of their arrival: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-29/first-airport-passengers-face-mandatory-quarantine-arrive-sydney/12099734

Short term moratorium on evictions nationally. Specifics differ from state to state. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/17/australias-landlords-and-tenants-what-support-is-available-in-the-coronavirus-crisis

Some states, such as South Australia, have not closed schools to begin with. Others, such as NSW have left schools open, but attendance went down to as low as 5%. Victoria has moved its school holidays forward, closing all schools from March 24 (including independent schools); https://www.theguardian.com/education/2020/apr/09/federal-education-minister-orders-independent-schools-to-reopen-for-term-two; https://www.theguardian.com/education/2020/apr/09/federal-education-minister-orders-independent-schools-to-reopen-for-term-two

See, for example, fines introduced in Sydney (in the state of NSW) of up to A$11,000 (US$6,779) for people who leave their home without good reason: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/australia-enacts-sweeping-lockdown-powers-to-combat-coronavirus-spread/ar-BB11W267

Defence Forces assisting with contact tracing (tracing varies by state/territory): https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/minister/lreynolds/media-releases/expansion-adf-support-covid-19-assist

Restrictions vary between states/territories. For instance, South Australia and Western Australia have not said people cannot leave their home. Summary in this Guardian article from 2/4/20: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/apr/01/social-distancing-rules-australia-lockdown-coronavirus-strict-new-laws-legal-illegal-state-physical-restrictions-guidelines-explained-nsw-victoria-qld-queensland-act-sa-wa-two-person

Restrictions vary between states/territories. Summary in this Guardian article from 2/4/20: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/apr/01/social-distancing-rules-australia-lockdown-coronavirus-strict-new-laws-legal-illegal-state-physical-restrictions-guidelines-explained-nsw-victoria-qld-queensland-act-sa-wa-two-person

Western Australia allows testing for people who have fever and respiratory issues: https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/COVID-clinics General conditions of eligibility for rest of Australia remain more narrow. Available at Health Department website: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19

Varies by state. Western Australia: https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Coronavirus/Locations-visited-by-confirmed-cases Queensland: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/current-status-and-contact-tracing-alerts NSW: unclear, limited information Northern Territory: unclear, limited information Tasmania: small number of cases but evidence of comprehensive contact tracing, e.g. https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/media-releases/coronavirus-alert

The Federal Education Minister of Australia has requested independent schools to reopen for term two. See the press report published on April 3: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2020/apr/09/federal-education-minister-orders-independent-schools-to-reopen-for-term-two According to this press report published on April 8, Australian schools remain open: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2240226-australia-seems-to-be-keeping-a-lid-on-covid-19-how-is-it-doing-it/

The state of Western Australia joins a number of other Australia states/territories in closing its borders. You will no longer be able to enter Western Australia after 11.59pm, on Sunday, 5 April 2020 unless an exemption has been granted. Exemptions must be granted by WA Police prior to travel. You must carry your exemption form and proof of its submission when travelling. You may be asked to produce this documentation at a check point or by WA Police patrolling the area. Source: State Government website, available: https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-the-premier-and-cabinet/covid-19-coronavirus-advice-travelling-and-within-western-australia

Federal report identifies 9.3% of confirmed cases as not traced to a previous contact; https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/04/coronavirus-covid-19-at-a-glance-5-april-2020_0.pdf

Testing differs by state, national guidelines are still symptoms and / or specific eligibility criteria. Some states have extended testing to anyone with symptoms, Victoria has started a limited amount of random screening. https://www.thecourier.com.au/story/6709758/who-can-get-tested-for-coronavirus/

The Federal Education Minister of Australia has requested independent schools to reopen for term two. See the press report published on April 3: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2020/apr/09/federal-education-minister-orders-independent-schools-to-reopen-for-term-two According to this press report published on April 8, Australian schools remain open: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2240226-australia-seems-to-be-keeping-a-lid-on-covid-19-how-is-it-doing-it/

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2020/apr/09/federal-education-minister-orders-independent-schools-to-reopen-for-term-two; https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/apr/13/are-schools-open-closed-term-2-australia-coronavirus-easter-holidays

https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/apr/15/can-i-visit-my-family-parents-coronavirus-australia-lockdown-rules-covid-19-restrictions-nsw-victoria-queensland; https://www.australia.gov.au

https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6719283/international-border-closures-could-be-long-term/ - Borders are closed, however citizens and PR holders are allowed to return and will need to stay in a government arranged quarantine centre for 2/52 on return.

The Government has decided to reduce the JobSeeker Payment Partner Income Test taper rate from 60 cents to 25 cents from 27 April 2020. This will allow more couples to access payment where one of the couple loses their job and goes onto JobSeeker Payment, and the working partner is on a more modest income. https://www.dss.gov.au/about-the-department/coronavirus-covid-19-information-and-support

27 April Media Source: “Australia’s coronavirus testing regime to be expanded to include asymptomatic patients, The testing regime will be expanded nationwide, Chief Medical Officer Dr Brendan Murphy said during a press conference on Monday.” The initial calls to expand to asymptomatic or mild (including non covid-19 symptoms) to be tested was back in April. Media Source: http://archive.vn/eOLzC Youtube source of press briefing: http://archive.vn/ANBFC This government source says they aim to: "undertake strategically targeted asymptomatic screening in high risk settings or vulnerable populations, particularly in association with a case exposure in these settings." Clear allowance for those without symptoms aligns with a goal to maximise testing, and attempting to proactively detect asymptomatic cases (however unlikely), and of course expect a high hit rate for those with symptoms. NSW Government Source: http://archive.vn/BumdC

NSW School students to return to school on 25 May. Archived Education Department media release: https://education.nsw.gov.au/news/latest-news/nsw-students-return-to-the-classroom-full-time ACT students to gradually return from 18 May. Archive Education Department information: https://www.education.act.gov.au/public-school-life/remote-learning-in-term-2-2020 Northern Territory students expected to be at school from 20 April: https://education.nt.gov.au/ Queensland: all students to be at school from 25 May: https://qed.qld.gov.au/about-us/news-and-media/novel-coronavirus South Australian schools are open: https://www.education.sa.gov.au/supporting-students/health-e-safety-and-wellbeing/covid-19-coronavirus/advice-families/learning-term-2 Tasmanian students have a staged return from 25 May: https://www.education.tas.gov.au/2020/05/tasmanian-students-to-return-to-learning-at-school/ Western Australian students expected to be at school from 18 May: https://www.education.wa.edu.au/term-2-schooling-arrangements Victorian students: staged return from 25 May to 9 June: https://education.vic.gov.au/parents/Pages/stagedreturn_overview.aspx

"NSW – Yes, but only if it is takeaway and if you have met a friend for the purpose of exercising, or if you are visiting another person’s home. From 15 May, up to 10 people will be allowed to dine-in at a cafe or restaurant, as long as there are at least four sq metres per person. Queensland – Yes, as of Friday 1 May, people are allowed to leave the house for some recreational activities, including getting a takeaway coffee with one friend or the members of your household. From 16 May, cafes in regional or rural areas with no cases will be allowed to seat up to 20 people. Victoria and Tasmania – Yes, but only if it is takeaway and you have met a friend for the purpose of exercising. From midnight on the 12th May, you can go and have coffee at another person’s home, though the state government says you should only visit other people “if you really need to”." ACT, SA– Yes, as long as it is takeaway. WA – Yes, as long as it is takeaway. But from Monday 18 May, cafes and restaurants will be allowed to seat up to 20 diners as long as they follow the four sq metres per person rule. NT – Yes, as long as it is takeaway. Cafes and restaurants will be allowed to reopen from Friday 15 May.ttps://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/13/how-far-can-i-travel-visit-my-friends-family-parents-go-fishing-coronavirus-australia-lockdown-rules-covid-19-restrictions-guidelines-nsw-victoria-queensland-qld-wa-sa-act

State-by-state summary of social distancing rules in this archived Guardian article: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/20/social-distancing-rules-australia-when-will-end-guidelines-coronavirus-laws-physical-covid-19-restrictions-signs-posters-nsw-victoria-qld-queensland-act-sa-wa-nt-tasmania

Some states have restrictions on gatherings of <10 people; some states have relaxed those restrictions to include funerals of 20 guests indoors or 30 outdoors (e.g. Queensland from 15 May, Tasmania from 18 May). Two useful reports, archived: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/20/social-distancing-rules-australia-when-will-end-guidelines-coronavirus-laws-physical-covid-19-restrictions-signs-posters-nsw-victoria-qld-queensland-act-sa-wa-nt-tasmania https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-08/coronavirus-cafes-restaurant-restrictions-relaxed-states/12228866

Summary of state-specific measures: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/20/social-distancing-rules-australia-when-will-end-guidelines-coronavirus-laws-physical-covid-19-restrictions-signs-posters-nsw-victoria-qld-queensland-act-sa-wa-nt-tasmania

18 May “Hundreds of thousands of Sydneysiders will have to give up their public transport commute and drive to the city under strict new social distancing measures announced by the NSW government. Capacity on trains, buses and ferries will be slashed, temporary car parking set up at Moore Park and six new pop-up cycleways rolled out across Sydney, Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced on Monday. Just 12 people will be allowed on a bus and 32 in a train carriage as the government works to maintain strict physical distancing of 1.5 metres on the network. Trains will run at 24 per cent capacity and buses at 14 per cent for the foreseeable future, meaning Sydneysiders may be prevented from entering railway stations as they fill up or watch near-empty buses drive past their stops” Source: http://archive.vn/zhhOo

Schools reopened (note - gradual return to school depending on students' year level) but universities remain closed.

Victorians still being asked to stay at home: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stay-home-restrictions-coronavirus Little by way of "stay at home" messages in other states. Note, for example, easing of "stay at home" restrictions in Queensland on 1 May 2020. Archived statement: http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/5/1/queenslanders-urged-to-play-it-safe-this-weekend

May 27 Victorian Transport Infrastructure Minister Jacinta Allan has published data showing about 390,000 public transport trips were taken in Victoria on May 27, or about 18 per cent of the system’s capacity, an increase of 73,000 from a week before. Reduced capacity in Victoria. Source: http://archive.vn/7NPvO

"Stay at home" is no longer a key message. See, for example, this line from the PM's Q and A with reporters of 29/5/20: "...as we’ve seen Australians move back out of their homes, go back into work places, slowly being and going back into playgrounds and into schools and all of these things they have been looking forward to doing for so long." Archived: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/press-conference-australian-parliament-house-act-29may20 Victoria - which held onto "stay at home" messaging longest - is no longer requiring people do so (but people are still encouraged to work from home if they can). See, for example, the new rules on this Victorian government website: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/how-stay-safe-and-well-covid-19

All students in the ACT had returned to school as of 2 June: https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/help-and-advice/students-education-childcare Some year levels in Victorian and Tasmanian schools due to return on 9 June, by which point all year levels will have returned to school, Australia-wide.

While "work from home" is no longer a feature of government advice, the country is somewhere between "step 1" and "step 2" of its three-step COVID-19 plan (see PM's remarks of 29/5/20: https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-following-national-cabinet-meeting) According to the plan, that means "Work from home if it works for you and your employer". Archived guidelines: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/3-step-framework-for-a-covidsafe-australia

NSW: Weddings up to 20 people, funerals up to 50 people. https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under-rules Victoria: Gatherings of up to 20 people permitted. https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/social-gatherings-covid-19 Queensland: Gatherings of up to 20 people permitted: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/system-governance/legislation/cho-public-health-directions-under-expanded-public-health-act-powers/movement-gathering-direction

Northern Territory still has border controls in place.

The return to school of specific year groups in the states of Victoria and Tasmania now means all Australian school students can be back in classrooms. In the state of Victoria, the return to school of students in years 3-9 means all year groups are now back in classrooms. Archived policy: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/parents/Pages/stagedreturn_overview.aspx In Tasmania, the return of students in years 7-10 means all students can now be back in classrooms. Archived webpage: https://www.education.tas.gov.au/parents-carers/novel-coronavirus-covid-19/

Today the government announced that for outdoor venues up to 40,000 spectator capacity, ticketed and seated events will be able to be held in front of a crowd of no more than 25 per cent of capacity. Also social distancing of 1 person per 4sqm and/or staying 1.5 metres away from other people must be adhered to whenever and wherever possible, and also maintain good hygiene of handwashing. However, it is up to individual States and territories to make decisions on when to move to this situation. It is likely that some states will not want to change things too quickly, for example Victoria where there are more cases is easing restrictions more slowly. This doesn't include non-ticketed standing events such as music festivals. https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-12june20

National Cabinet agreed to remove the 100 person limit on non-essential indoor gatherings under the Step 3 Framework and replace it with: 1 person per 4sqm; staying 1.5 metres away from other people whenever and wherever possible; However, Victoria still has a limit of 20 ppl in any public space at any given time, including restaurants and bars, and up to a max of 50 ppl for indoor or outdoor funerals (from 31 May onwards). http://archive.vn/UhGEq Victoria seems to be the most strict at this time.

Australia’s federal government stepped up pressure on state and territory leaders on Friday to reopen internal borders, a step viewed as key to reviving the country’s coronavirus-hit economy Opening up borders will ultimately be decided by the leaders of the respective States and territories. Queensland has a closed border to Victoria. https://www.reuters.com/article/health-coronavirus-australia/australian-pm-pushes-for-internal-borders-to-be-reopened-idUSL4N2DO4HP

14 June "Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos encouraged Victorians with even the mildest symptoms to go get tested. "Symptoms that should prompt people to get tested include fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough, sore throat, loss of sense of smell, or a runny nose. Even the most mild of symptoms could be a sign of coronavirus." When presenting with no symptoms though, it is called "asymptomatic testing". Sheets like this are common to explain that (1) yes, you absolutely can be tested but (2) unlike those who have symptoms and need to self-isolate, until a positive result is returned an asymptomatic person can go about normal activities. I suspect this is to encourage those with no symptoms to be tested because the fear of some being tested is that a positive result will mean compulsory isolation. Premier of Victoria announcement 14 June source: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/statement-from-the-premier-42/ Information Sheet for asymptomatic testing source: http://archive.vn/rdZnp

Tracing varies by 6 states. All states have declared comprehensive contact tracing as of 19th June. Government implemented a voluntary tracing appalled CovidSafe but this is not the main source of contact tracing. Source: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/covidsafe-app 19 June Western Australia: The Department of Health is contacting all confirmed cases to identify and inform close contacts. Source: https://healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Coronavirus/Locations-visited-by-confirmed-cases 12 June Queensland: If a person gets a positive test result for COVID-19, we do what is called ‘contact tracing’. Source: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/contact-tracing 23 May New South Wales: People identified as close contacts to someone testing positive should travel directly to the place where they will undertake their self-isolation (home or a hotel). Source: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/advice-for-contacts.aspx 24 June Northern Territory: Only 1 active case, evidence of tracing. The Territorian who tested positive to coronavirus travelled on 29 June from Melbourne to Brisbane on flight QF610 and from Brisbane to Darwin on flight QF836. Those seated near him on the plane will be contacted by NT Health staff. Source: https://coronavirus.nt.gov.au/current-status Tasmania: No active cases but evidence of comprehensive contact tracing. Source: https://www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au/media-releases/coronavirus-alert South Australia: 27th June: The Communicable Disease Control Branch’s contact tracing team will be boosted by up to 300 additional staff. Source: https://www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/Public+Content/SA+Health+Internet/Conditions/Infectious+Diseases/COVID+2019/COVID-19+Response/SA+Health+response+-+COVID-19

Due to a cluster of COVID virus in Victoria, two primary schools have had to close. One of the cases reportedly from a person in hotel quarantine. http://archive.vn/wip/TWecl

as of 23 June most businesses in Australia have opened, many with a Covid safety plan in place, if required by the state. Some states have eased distancing requirement to 1 person per 2 square meters, others such as New South Wales are still at 1 person per 4 square meters for many places. This is state dependent: http://archive.vn/wip/iTSq5 http://archive.vn/9W8cP

Based on state by state limitations to public gatherings and sizes. Some states are allowing sporting events with up to 500 people, some states (such as Victoria) still have fairly strict limitations to events and sizes. Weddings and funerals can be held in all states (differing limits to size and capacity) , but full list of attendees and phone numbers/emails must be kept for possible contact tracing. http://archive.vn/9W8cP http://archive.vn/pR0Yu

Each state has their own limitation to gathering size. Victoria has the most restrictions on gathering size with public gatherings limited to 10 people, visitors in a home to 5, private worship or small religious ceremonies limited to 20 people plus officiant. Physical distancing of at least 1.5m from those you don't live with. http://archive.vn/UhGEq

From 23 June, no indication of stay at home policies.

You can only travel to Australia if you are an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, an immediate family member of an Australian citizen or permanent resident or are a New Zealand citizen usually resident in Australia. https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/travel-restrictions-0

This KPMG report ( http://archive.vn/wip/adKge) has a breakdown of all of the tax and debt relief packages announced by states and federal government on deferral of payments, etc. Based on the information here, I code this as broad debt/contract relief. Some relief for small businesses, state and territory governments have various fiscal packages that include payroll tax relief for businesses and relief for households, discount utility bills (some regions, unsure what discount). http://archive.vn/SofPj http://archive.vn/wip/sRaE5

June 25th Victoria introduces a ‘suburban testing blitz’ "...all residents of these suburbs will be eligible for free testing, with or without symptoms, with a priority on testing symptomatic cases. Door to door testing was added to cover everyone, with the majority of those tested obviously being asymptomatic: Victoria Source: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/202006/2001628_COVID-19_COVID-19%20suburban%20testing%20blitz.pdf They have started to test every single house regardless of symptoms or not: "Health workers going door-to-door to test residents in these hotspots will be using a new type of saliva test developed by the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity that is less invasive, and painful, than nose and throat swabs. "Mr Andrews urged everyone to agree to be tested if a health worker knocks on their door." https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/testing-blitz-to-target-coronavirus-hotspots-as-state-records-33-new-cases-20200625-p555yp.html Some residents refused testing in the door to door blanket testing. Victoria’s Health Minister Jenny Mikakos has urged residents living in Melbourne’s coronavirus hotspots to get tested after more than 10,000 people rejected approaches by health workers to be swabbed. More than 164,000 Victorians have been tested as part of a blitz launched last Thursday, with local lockdowns now in place to contain growing suburban outbreaks. Media article : https://www.sbs.com.au/news/health-officials-raise-conspiracy-concerns-as-10-000-refuse-coronavirus-tests-in-victoria

June 29 “While public transport has been exempt from day one of the pandemic, patronage reduced by nearly 70% as Tasmanians stayed home to slow the spread, providing essential travellers with more room on board” Source: https://www.metrotas.com.au/communication/blog/2020/covid-19-coronavirus-advice-to-all-passengers/

9 postcodes within the state of Victoria have imposed lockdowns restricting the movement of residents to leave the house only for food or supplies, to work or study if you can't do it at home, give or receive care, exercise. In effect until 29 July. http://archive.vn/wip/P5I9a

9 postcodes within the state of Victoria have imposed lockdowns restricting the movement of residents to leave the house only for food or supplies, to work or study if you can't do it at home, give or receive care, exercise. in place until 29 July. affected postcodes: 3012, 3021, 3032, 3038, 3042, 3046, 3047, 3055, 3060, 3064. In other regions and states, most businesses have reopened with capacity regulations at 1 person per 2 square meters. http://archive.vn/wip/P5I9a

9 postcodes within the state of Victoria have imposed lockdowns restricting the movement of residents to leave the house only for food or supplies, to work or study if you can't do it at home, give or receive care, exercise. in place until 29 July. affected postcodes: 3012, 3021, 3032, 3038, 3042, 3046, 3047, 3055, 3060, 3064. In other regions and states, most businesses have reopened with capacity regulations at 1 person per 2 square meters. http://archive.vn/wip/P5I9a

Each state has their own limits to public gatherings. At latest, Victoria has the most strict limit to public gatherings: 50 ppl can attend a funeral, but all other events, restaurants, bars, etc are limited to 20 patrons, or participants. What is unclear in the latest lockdown of postcodes in Victoria is what the limit to gathering size is- may assume it is under 10, in which case, this may be a 4? As this has not been specifically noted, I have coded this as a 3T for now. http://archive.vn/wip/P5I9a http://archive.vn/UhGEq

July 1 Public transport capacity in NSW to double as of 1 July (Suggesting it has been limited up to this point). From July 1, there will be 68 passengers allowed on a Waratah train carriage, 23 on a bus and 450 on a Freshwater ferry. Forty people will be allowed on a light rail and 65 in a metro train. We are still encouraging people to travel outside the peak where possible," Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Tuesday. Source: http://archive.vn/k5s3z

9 postcodes within the state of Victoria have imposed lockdowns restricting the movement of residents to leave the house only for food or supplies, to work or study if you can't do it at home, give or receive care, exercise. In place until 29 July affected postcodes: 3012, 3021, 3032, 3038, 3042, 3046, 3047, 3055, 3060, 3064. In other regions and states, most businesses have reopened with capacity regulations at 1 person per 2 square meters. http://archive.vn/wip/P5I9a

Australia’s federal government stepped up pressure on state and territory leaders on Friday to reopen internal borders, a step viewed as key to reviving the country’s coronavirus-hit economy Opening up borders will ultimately be decided by the leaders of the respective States and territories. Queensland has a closed border to Victoria. Many states within AUS have regulations to who can and cannot cross into their state, especially if they have come from Victoria where there have been increased cases of COVID. https://www.reuters.com/article/health-coronavirus-australia/australian-pm-pushes-for-internal-borders-to-be-reopened-idUSL4N2DO4HP

The Australian international border remains closed to entry. Repatriation or anyone entering is subject to 14 day quarantine. https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/travel-restrictions-0

7 July In some states there have been 0 cases for over a month, and in some areas of NSW and Victoria there have been no sign of cases (some of these areas are remote and there is little movement in and out of towns), asymptomatic testing is discouraged. It is however encouraged for those at risk which includes anyone if current hotspots. NSW Source 7 July: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/frequently-asked-questions.aspx

Schools in Melbourne and an area to the north called the Mitchell Shirewill largely returned to distance learning on 8 July. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-53335745

Restaurants in Melbourne and an area to the north called the Mitchell Shire are only permitted to serve takeaway food from 8 July. Shops and hairdressers remain open. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-53335745

Stage 3 "Stay at home restrictions" introduced for all of Melbourne and Mitchell Shire. https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/updates/coronavirus-covid-19/statement-premier

From 8 July, people in Melbourne and an area to the north called the Mitchell Shirewill will be kept to their homes, and will only be able to leave for essential reasons, such as for work, exercise and shopping for food and other necessities. This will last for six weeks. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-53335745

8 July New South Wales Premiers give press briefings everyday. From 9:30: When talking about even towns that "might" have people from hotspots in other states: "... they get tested at the mildest symptom because it's our high rates of testing and contact tracing that will keep people as safe as possible. From 12:30: "... and I also stress is the strongest possible terms, anyone in the state that has the mildest of symptoms, come forward and be tested". Press briefing video: https://vimeo.com/436294706/f580d23023

9 July Genomic testing has been used since prior to the first case in Melbourne and is now being used nationally. Source: http://archive.vn/AZCpr “Revealing COVID-19 transmission in Australia by SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing and agent-based modeling”. This is particularly important in the context of mild or asymptomatic infection. Source: http://archive.vn/n2to8

12th July Clusters in Victoria and Sydney Australian contacts tell us that it is common knowledge that no one is ever turned away from a test. It is not recommended by the government still that asymptomatic people get tested because in their results, they provide little yield. However as clusters have. broken out in Victoria and now Sydney, many people have been concerned that there is a conflicting message. On one hand they're saying anyone who has gone into these areas must be tested regardless of symptoms. On the other hand, they have said asymptomatic people don't require a test. ***H2 definition is” "Open public testing (e.g “drive through” testing available to asymptomatic people)." This is true, as asymptomatic testing is "available" just not "recommended".*** There is a transcript from the Deputy Chief Medical Officer from 12th July that confirms asymptomatic testing: It has always been "available", meeting your criteria, but going one step further, in outbreak areas the medical officer is recommending asymptomatic testing. He admits in this statement that asymptomatic testing has been conducted (therefore available), inferring this is the practice generally aside from cluster areas. "The reality, from the Victorian experience that we've seen, is that there have been many, many thousands of tests conducted on asymptomatic individuals for very little yield- but when I say yield very few positives out of the asymptomatic testing that's being conducted down there. "The asymptomatic test has a role in places where there's local small clusters, so the Casula case is a very good example. So we don't want to miss any cases in that sort of scenario, therefore we're going to recommend asymptomatic testing." Australian Department of Health Source: http://archive.vn/zFZNu

Schools in regional and rural Victoria, other than Mitchell Shire, resumed on-site learning from the start of Term 3 on Monday 13 July. Schools remain closed for other year groups. Schools are open as normal in other parts of the country https://education.vic.gov.au/about/department/Pages/term3.aspx

From 14 July, certain Australian states closed their borders; people undertake interstate travel to these states must quarantine for 14 days in government-provided accommodation on arrival. https://www.health.gov.au/news/state-quarantine-requirements-for-interstate-travel

Public events are cancelled in Victoria. https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions-victoria

No social gatherings are permitted currently in Victoria. 5 ppl can attend a wedding, including the couple, celebrant and 2 witnesses, whilst 10 ppl can attend a funeral. Other parts of the country do not have restrictions. https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/social-gatherings-metropolitan-melbourne-and-mitchell-shire-covid-19

Stay at home order for Victoria with 4 exceptions: exercise, shopping for essential items, providing care to another, attending medical appointments. Other states do not have such restrictions. https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions-victoria

In Victoria movement beyond one's suburb is discouraged, travel beyond or into metropolitan Melbourne is prohibited, some state borders are closed.

Border remains closed to all but returning residents. Residents are subjected to 14 day mandatory hotel quarantine on return.

Testing is recommended for people with symptoms, however, anyone can access a testing centre and tests are not refused.

Lockdown in Victoria extended on 19 July. Closures of some non-essential businesses and encourages people to work from home where possible. Non-essential retail stores, hairdressers, take-away food and drink outlets, and offices are still open. Businesses are open as usual in other parts of the country. https://www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions-victoria https://www.cotavic.org.au/news-items/state-of-emergency-extended-to-keep-slowing-the-spread/

Stage 4 restrictions in Victoria have seen the closure of many workplaces. Take-away food shops, grocery stores, pharmacies, health services and petrol stations remain open. Construction work continues with limits of numbers of ppl on site. A few other industries are allowed to continue operating with various restrictions. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/aug/07/victoria-stage-4-restrictions-melbourne-lockdown-rules-covid-19-stage-four-metropolitan-metro-explained-what-you-need-to-know https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/business-industry-stage-4-restrictions-covid-19

All but essential workplaces are closed. Supermarkets will continue to stay open to allow people to buy food so there is no need to stock up on groceries. Other shops will only be available for delivery or click and collect. Metropolitan Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, and capital of the Victoria region, entered Stage 4 restrictions on 2 August, to last 6 weeks and Stage 3 restrictions apply to regional Victoria as of 5 August. From 6pm on Sunday 2 August, if you live in metropolitan Melbourne, Stage 4 restrictions apply. Victoria State Government Source: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stage-4-restrictions-summary-covid-19

A curfew is in place between the hours of 8pm until 5am. This means you must be at your home during these hours. The only reasons to leave home between 8pm and 5am will be work, medical care and caregiving. Only one person per household can leave home to get necessary goods and services. They can leave once a day, which means people can’t do multiple shopping trips. You should limit the time you spend away from home. If you are unable to leave a child, children or an person in your care at home unattended, then they may accompany you. Metropolitan Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, and capital of the Victoria region, entered Stage 4 restrictions on 2 August, to last 6 weeks and Stage 3 restrictions apply to regional Victoria as of 5 August. From 6pm on Sunday 2 August, if you live in metropolitan Melbourne, Stage 4 restrictions apply. Victoria State Government Source: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stage-4-restrictions-summary-covid-19

Metropolitan Melbourne, Australia’s second largest city, and capital of the Victoria region, entered Stage 4 restrictions on 2 August, to last 6 weeks and Stage 3 restrictions apply to regional Victoria as of 5 August. From 6pm on Sunday 2 August, if you live in metropolitan Melbourne, Stage 4 restrictions apply. Victoria State Government Source: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/stage-4-restrictions-summary-covid-19 You can only travel up to 5km from your home. You should stay as close to your home as possible, for example shopping at the nearest supermarket. For some people the nearest essential goods and services will be more than 5km away. In this situation you may travel beyond 5km to the nearest provider.

All students in Victoria returned to online learning with the introduction of Stage 4 restrictions on Monday 3rd August. https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/aug/07/victoria-stage-4-restrictions-melbourne-lockdown-rules-covid-19-stage-four-metropolitan-metro-explained-what-you-need-to-know

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has closed its border to travelers from Victoria. Any non-ACT residents traveling from Victoria must be granted an exemption to enter the ACT. ACT residents returning from Victoria must notify ACT Health and enter a 14-day quarantine. New South Wales (NSW) has closed its border with Victoria. You may apply for a border entry permit to travel from Victoria to NSW here. Residents returning to NSW from Victoria must enter NSW through the Sydney airport and will be required to go into hotel quarantine for 14 days at their own expense. Heavy penalties and fines will apply for those who do not comply. All persons traveling to the Northern Territory must complete a border entry form up to 72 hours before arrival. Anyone arriving into the Northern Territory from or through an identified hotspot in the last 14 days must undertake a 14-day mandatory supervised quarantine at their own expense. Any person who has been in the State of Victoria or another declared COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days will not be permitted to enter Queensland. Travelers from all other states and territories may enter Queensland subject to completing and signing a border declaration. A pre-approval process is now in place for travelers wishing to enter South Australia, which will determine if a traveler is able to enter without restriction or is required to self-quarantine on arrival for 14 days. Travelers from Victoria, other than essential travelers, are not permitted to travel to South Australia. All travelers must register online before traveling to Tasmania. All non-essential travelers will be required to enter quarantine for 14 days. All persons undergoing quarantine in government-designated facilities will be required to pay a fee. All essential travelers who have spent time in an affected region in the previous 14 days will be required to take a COVID-19 test upon arrival. This Tasmanian quarantine requirement is in addition to the Australian Government requirement for all returning international travelers to quarantine at their point of arrival into Australia. The government of Western Australia (WA) has temporarily closed the Western Australian state border and enacted tighter restrictions for travel through aboriginal communities. Link: https://au.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

Borders remain closed to all except citizens and permanent residents. Link: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/australia

Continued public health campaign. Link: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19

No change in policy. Link: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19

No change.