- Masks will only need to be worn in high-risk facilities and very limited circumstances
- No restrictions on gatherings in public spaces
- Restrictions for private residences has increased from 30 to 100
As of 6 am (EST) this morning, a raft of restrictions have been relaxed for Queenslanders. The announcement comes after Brisbane went into lockdown last month amid a small cluster and after several restrictions remained in place over the past fortnight.
Yvette D’Ath, the Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, said she recognised the prompt response from health workers across the state.
“Throughout the recent clusters, our contact tracers were working hard to follow up close and casual contacts and get the word out about venues that positive COVID-19 cases visited. This helped us to quickly contain the spread.
“Thank you to all those who turned out to get tested. We had an overwhelming response and this has all played a role in easing restrictions two weeks down the track and further open up the state to Queenslanders and visitors.”
Yvette D’Ath, Minister for Health and Ambulance Services
Masks will no longer be required when in indoor spaces or outdoors when social distancing can’t be enhanced. However, masks will be mandatory in airports and planes like the rest of the country and will need to be worn in high-risk settings such as hospitals and aged care facilities.
Individuals can visit patients in hospitals, aged care and disability accommodation residents but there are some circumstances whereby people cannot visit high-risk facilities, more information is on Queensland’s Health website.
There are no longer any restrictions on gatherings in public spaces, while for private residences the maximum number of attendees has increased from 30 to 100.
The sit-down rule for retail food services, entertainment venues and high-risk businesses has been removed meaning patrons can stand when eating and drinking both inside and outside. Restrictions have been removed for outdoor-based businesses except for dance and music festivals which still have some requirements. Dancing is allowed under the one person per two square metre rule, both indoors and outdoors.
Dr Jeannette Young, the Chief Health Officer, is satisfied the risk of more cases in the community is very low, however, she stresses all Queenslanders must continue to remain vigilant.
“It’s great news that we’re able to ease even more restrictions and while we’re not yet returning to normal, we’re steadily getting closer,” Dr Young said.
“We’re very lucky here in Queensland to be able to have gatherings and outdoor events, to go out to restaurants and cafes, go dancing and only have to wear masks in certain settings.
“But we must remember that we’re still in the midst of a global pandemic.”
Jeannette Young, QLD Chief Medical Officer
