Minister Barr: Update on ACT COVID-19 Restrictions
- Written by ACT Government
Released 06/08/2020
Based on the ACT’s current COVID numbers and the efforts of NSW authorities to manage localised outbreaks, Chief Health Officer Dr Coleman has determined that some remaining businesses and activities can recommence under strict COVID guidelines from 9:00am Monday 10 August.
However, there are other elements of the ACT’s easing of restrictions roadmap that will not be implemented at this time.
These relate to large gatherings and changes to the 1 person per four square metre guideline in some settings. This guideline continues to be an important part of the control measures we have in place to reduce the risk of infection.
The ACT Government will continue implementing the advice from our health experts on the most effective ways to keep our city safe.
The pandemic is not over, and the virus will be a part of our lives for quite some time. There will be further outbreaks in cities and towns all over the country, and we will continue to ask for the community’s support in reducing the risk of outbreaks spreading.
What will go a long way to keeping our community safe is for all Canberrans to maintain the measures we know work best to lower the risk of infection.
The most effective actions continue to be physical distancing, good hand hygiene and staying at home if you are unwell and getting tested for any COVID-19 symptoms.
The fourth line of defence is face masks - particularly for those who are unable to physically distance in their daily activities.
We are now advising Canberrans to be ready for a time when the Chief Health Officer may recommend wearing face masks in the ACT.
A further sensible precaution is to avoid crowds. We all have a responsibility to reduce crowding in public areas, shops and queues.
As part of living with the virus, we are implementing COVID-safe ways to support economic activity and protect as many local jobs as possible.
There are further steps in our recovery plan, such as capacity limits for smaller venues, that will be assessed again in a fortnight.
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
