Information for businesses – COVID-19

Posted on April 1st, 2020

Posted 1 January 2022

Starting 1am Sunday January 2022, masks will be required indoors across Queensland to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The Chief Health Officer has ordered masks be worn indoors everywhere except in the family home and workplaces where it is unsafe.

Masks are already required:

• In supermarkets and shops
• Public transport and rideshare
• Airports and on planes
• Cinemas and theatres
• From 1am Sunday, January 2 they will also be required in other indoor settings, such as:

• In workplaces (unless it is unsafe to do so)
• Pubs, clubs and cafes (except when seated)
• Indoors stadiums and sports arenas (except when seated)
• Libraries
• Hairdressers and nail salons
• Waiting rooms at a medical centre
• In addition, employers are urged to return to work-from-home arrangements where possible.

Access to vulnerable settings including aged care and hospitals is limited to only those who are fully vaccinated except in end of life, childbirth or emergencies.

Posted 23 December 2021

Cleaning rebate available to businesses identified as exposure sites – https://www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/covid-19-restrictions/cleaning-rebate

Posted 22 December 2021

The Queensland Government has announced that from 5am Thursday 23 December, mask mandates will be introduced for additional locations and people throughout the state. 

As of 5am tomorrow, the introduced measures will mandate masks for:

• Patrons and staff in cinemas and theatres
• Hospitality staff

For more information on Queensland’s mask mandate, please click here. 

Posted 21 December 2021

Factsheet: Managing the risk for COVID-19 exposures in businesses and venues

The Queensland Government has announced that new requirements for double vaccinated close and casual contacts will be brought forward to 1am Wednesday 22 December, instead of January next year.

As of 1am tomorrow, the requirements for testing and quarantine will be the following: 

• Vaccinated close contacts will need to quarantine for 7 days, returning to work on Day 8 (if Day 5 test results are negative). From Days 8-14 the close contact must wear a mask, not enter high-risk settings and maintain social distancing. 
• Unvaccinated close contacts will need to quarantine for 14 days. 
• Causal contacts will need to quarantine until they receive a negative test result. 

The quarantine period for those fully vaccinated will be halved from 14 to 7 days. For the unvaccinated, the quarantine period of 14 days remains unchanged. 

For months, QTIC has strongly advocated for the new requirement schedule to be brought forward. The reduced quarantine period will help to build confidence and greater certainty within our industry. We welcome the government’s response and look forward to the next steps. 

More information about the new requirements is available online. 

Posted 20 December 2021

Mask wearing is mandatory across Queensland in the following locations:

• Indoor retail shops
• Public transport
• Rideshare
• Airport precincts and airplanes 
• Hospitals
• Aged care facilities

The mask wearing mandate will be reviewed when double vaccination in Queensland reaches 90 per cent (which is expected to be mid to late January).
Whilst not mandatory, in settings where social distancing cannot be maintained, mask wearing is strongly advised.

A message from QTIC’s Chief Executive, Daniel Gschwind

We’re aware that tourism operators in both mandated and non-mandated settings are concerned about the possible impacts that may arise if customers or staff are deemed close contacts or test positive to coronavirus. Specifically, what quarantining measures will be enforced in such situations. 

As it stands, and until 1 January, any close contact will be placed in quarantine for 14 days. For some businesses, this may force the closure of operations, as staff are in short supply.

We have spoken directly to the Premier and the Minister for Health about these concerns and have asked for further clarification for our operators. The Government has promised to provide more practical advice for our industry.

The Minster for Health has also indicated that, in the event that a business is affected by COVID-19, the Government would give considerations regarding the working environment. Such as whether staff had been wearing masks when in contact with customers and other staff members. In other words, it may be advisable for frontline staff to wear masks. 

QTIC will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available.

Posted 15 December 2021

From 1 January 2022, rules relating to the close contacts of someone who has tested positive to COVID-19 will change. 

The following are key points and changes to be aware of:

• Vaccinated close contacts – will need to quarantine for 7 days, returning to work on Day 8 (if Day 5 test results are negative). From Days 8-14 the close contact must wear a mask, not enter high-risk settings and maintain social distancing. 
• Unvaccinated close contacts – will need to quarantine for 14 days. 
• Causal contacts – will need to quarantine until they receive a negative test result. 

The Queensland Government has announced that it is extremely unlikely that businesses or venues that have a positive case detected will need to be closed. Routine cleaning overnight will need to occur. 

More information about the upcoming changes is available online. 

Posted 9 December 2021

Find answers to some of the top questions about COVID-19 by visiting Fair Work Australia’s Top COVID-19 questions and answers for employees and employers – coronavirus.fairwork.gov.au/coronavirus-and-australian-workplace-laws/tools-and-help-during-coronavirus/top-covid-questions

Posted 7 December 2021

The Public Health Direction to support the new public health measures will be available soon, which will provide the detail needed for your business to operationalise these requirements, available the Chief Health Officer Direction has now been released online and at the Chief Health Officer public health directions | Queensland Health and communicated to the tourism industry through Tourism and Events Queensland’s industry newsletter – Eye on Q.

The Chief Health Officer direction

will come into effect from 5am Friday 17^th December – there is clarification within the direction on:

• businesses, activities and undertakings (listed in Schedule 1) where both workers and visitors need to be vaccinated either to enter and remain at the premises
• requirements for visitors and workers entering those businesses to provide evidence of vaccination or exemption, and contact information for contact tracing purposes
• roadhouses and service stations are included as an essential business, activity or undertaking and treated similarly to a food court where anyone can enter, unless it is a standalone restaurant at the roadhouse
• inhouse cafes and catering services are only to be considered a restaurant or café when they open to the public
• ferry services previously within the category of tourism experiences are now categorised as transport providers where operating as such (a bar or café on board the ferry must comply with the relevant restrictions for a bar or café).

Two other directions are due to be released this week, the first on High Risk Settings and the other on the Border Direction.

Queensland Health has also prepared specific questions and answers about upcoming changes to restrictions in Queensland and  guidance on questions and answers for the tourism and aviation industry. These pages are updated frequently and we encourage you to check in regularly.

If you have any further questions relating to COVID-19, call 134 COVID (13 42 68).

A range of support materials for non-essential leisure businesses – hospitality and entertainment businesses – have been developed by the Queensland Government to help manage the new public health measures.  These include:

Signage for businesses –available from the Business Queensland website Business restrictions from 17 December 2021 | Business Queensland

• Proof of vaccination required from 17 December (to use now)
• Proof of vaccination required (to use from 17 December)
• proof of vaccination not required.

Frequently asked questions – FAQs are being added to the Queensland Health website for business and industry. These are being updated as needed.

Free online training course – In partnership with TAFE Queensland, free online training resources for hospitality and entertainment businesses have been developed to help them manage the entry of customers, including checking their vaccination status. These resources are available now from the TAFE Queensland website.

Business Queensland website – an information sheet plus a new page of content Business Queensland website.

‘Be nice’ campaign –a campaign (radio, socials and posters) will commence prior to Christmas encouraging Queenslanders to be kind to workers managing the new public health measures at hospitality and entertainment businesses. Further details will be provided as the initiative progresses.

Mental health support

Queensland Health have Regional Adversity Integrated Care Clinicians who work in the Tackling Regional Adversity through Connected Communities (TRACC) Program (information on previous program here but will be updated in the new year – https://clinicalexcellence.qld.gov.au/priority-areas/service-improvement/tackling-regional-adversity-through-integrated-care-traic). They can work with regional networks to design specific mental health support options and connect people to the appropriate level of care.

These clinicians are currently available to 30 June 2022 and located in Central Qld, Darling Downs, Wide Bay, Townsville, Cairns, South West (Roma), Mackay, Sunshine Coast, West Moreton and Metro South (Scenic Rim/ Canungra).  

Grow your tourism business

Support for your business is also available on our DestinationQ site – Business support – DestinationQ (destq.com.au) – including an updated flyer – Grow your own business: Tools, resources and funding (destq.com.au), which is a valuable resource for support available for businesses looking to improve their operations.

Posted 6 December 2021

Queensland borders will re-open to domestic hotspots from 1am, Monday December 13.

As of 1am, Monday, December 13:

• Travellers from interstate hotspots can arrive by road or air
• They must be fully vaccinated
• They must provide a negative COVID test in the previous 72 hours
• No quarantine is required for the fully vaccinated

• International arrivals must be fully vaccinated and return a negative covid test within 72 hours of departure
• They will be required to get a test on arrival
• They must go into home or hotel quarantine for 14 days

There are two important changes:

• Travellers no longer have to wait two weeks to be considered fully vaccinated. One is enough
• All travellers from hotspots must get a test on Day Five after their arrival

The mandate on who can enter venues remains unchanged. It takes effect on December 17.

Border Bubble

Vaccinated border zone residents will be able to move freely across the border without the need for a PCR test.

Border passes will be required and they will be valid for 14 days.

Unvaccinated residents will be restricted to travel for the limited reasons that exist now.

From December 17 only fully vaccinated people will be permitted to enter pubs, clubs, cinemas, festivals and theme parks and visit vulnerable settings such as hospitals and aged care accommodation.

Read the full media statement – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93994

Posted 3 December 2021

Dr Lynne Coulson Barr OAM has been appointed Queensland’s new Health Ombudsman.

Read the full media statement – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93973

Posted 23 November 2021

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced the appointment of Queensland’s new Chief Health Officer.

Dr John Gerrard is an internationally respected and awarded researcher and clinician with more than 30 years’ experience.

Dr Gerrard is currently director of Infectious Diseases at Gold Coast University Hospital. He was the first in Queensland to treat a COVID patient.

Read the full media statement – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93860

Posted 15 November 2021

As COVID-19 restrictions ease and businesses reopen, know your rights and obligations regarding vaccinations for your workplace, customers and employees.  Information for businesses COVID-19 vaccinations and your business.

Posted 10 November 2021

The Queensland Government will mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for all private healthcare staff across the state, including staff working in hospitals, aged care and disability services.

The Direction extends to health professionals, contractors, independent third party providers, and employees or volunteers engaged by external agencies.

It applies to a vast range of healthcare settings including private hospitals, day surgeries, GP clinics, pharmacies, optometrists, private nurse offices, allied health clinics, dental surgeries, and private pathology centres.

The Direction also applies to in-home aged care, many disability support services, and not-for-profit and NGOs providing public healthcare services.

Home quarantine

Home quarantine will become more accessible for returning Queenslanders and eligible interstate travellers once the 70 per cent double-dose vaccination mark is reached.

Travellers will be able to arrive at any Queensland airport, but can only transit to another destination through Brisbane. They can then drive, by private car, a hire car with contactless pick-up, or an endorsed transport provider, to the home quarantine residence, as long as it is within two hours without stopping.

People wanting to home quarantine must:

• be fully vaccinated (they must have had two doses of the vaccine, with at least two weeks between their second shot and their entry into Queensland)
• have returned a negative COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours prior to entry
• ensure anyone else residing in the household also quarantines
• use the home quarantine check-in service
• maintain contact records for anyone attending the property and
• get a PCR test at a drive-through clinic, using a private vehicle, on days 1, 5 and 12.

Posted 9 November 2021

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a range of measures that will see life return to normal for vaccinated Queenslanders while protecting those members of the community who are most vulnerable.

Pubs, clubs, nightclubs and music venues will be freed of all restrictions provided all patrons and staff are fully vaccinated.

The measures take effect from December 17th or once the State reaches 80% of eligible Queenslanders fully vaccinated whichever comes first and affect everyone 16 years of age and older.

From December 17th:

• Events at all Queensland government stadiums including Suncorp, The Gabba, Queensland Country Bank and Metricon will be for the fully vaccinated only including staff.  That includes Big Bash, T20, One Day Internationals, NRL, AFL, State of Origin and concerts.
• Hospitality venues including pubs, clubs, hotels, bars, restaurants and cafes will be open only to vaccinated staff and patrons
• Entertainment venues including live music and karaoke bars will be for vaccinated staff and patrons only
• Music festivals both indoor and outdoor will be for vaccinated staff, performers and patrons only
• Government-owned galleries, museums and libraries will be for vaccinated only
• No COVID limit on weddings where all attendees are vaccinated

Police will enforce the requirements of the venues.

In order to protect the most vulnerable, visitors to Aged Care, Hospitals, Prisons and Disability Services will be required to be vaccinated except in end of life, childbirth or emergencies.

Read the full media release – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93734

Posted 8 November 2021

From 12:01am, Friday November 5, Moree was declared a restricted border zone area.

Residents of Moree are no longer have access across the Queensland border as part of the border bubble, except in exceptional circumstances: including for the likes of essential healthcare.

It follows an outbreak that has so far spread to 33 cases in NSW. This is in addition to three cases that were reported in Queensland. There has also been a change to border directions, so that unvaccinated people in the New South Wales border zone, won’t be able to come to Queensland to places and services that are available only to vaccinated people in New South Wales. 

Posted 19 October 2021

Premier launches Vax-a-thon to keep Queensland safe –

Those who are fully vaccinated are 86% less likely to contract COVID and pass it on to a loved one.

The chance of dying from COVID falls by 90% if you are fully vaccinated – media release.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has released Queensland’s COVID Vaccination Plan with greater freedoms for the fully vaccinated – media release.

At 70% of Queensland’s eligible population fully vaccinated EXPECTED ON NOVEMBER 19

• Anyone who has been in a declared domestic hotspot in the previous 14 days can travel into Queensland provided:
  • They are fully vaccinated
  • Arrive by air
  • Have a negative COVID test in the previous 72 hours
  • Undertake home quarantine for 14 days

Direct international arrivals into Queensland will have to complete 14 days quarantine in Government-nominated facility.

International arrivals who arrive via another state or territory will have to quarantine in a Government-nominated facility until 14 days have passed since they arrived into Australia.

At 80% of Queensland’s eligible population fully vaccinated EXPECTED ON DECEMBER 17

• Travellers from an interstate hotspot can arrive by road or air
• They must be fully vaccinated
• They must have a negative COVID test in the previous 72 hours
• No quarantine required

Direct international arrivals can undertake 14 days (subject to review by AHPPC) home quarantine and subject to conditions set by Queensland Health provided they are:

• Fully vaccinated
• Have a negative COVID test in previous 72 hours

Those who don’t meet these criteria will need to enter within Queensland’s international arrivals cap and quarantine in a Government-nominated facility, just like now.

Those arriving via other states and territories won’t need to quarantine if they are:

• Fully vaccinated
• Have undertaken at least 14 days (subject to AHPPC review) of quarantine under the direction of another state or territory at home or in a government-nominated facility.

Those who don’t meet the criteria to arrive via another state or territory will need to apply for a border pass and undertake up to 14 days (subject to review by AHPPC) quarantine in a government-nominated facility.

It is important for businesses to know, at 80% vaccination coverage, there will not be government financial assistance available in the event of increased restrictions or lockdowns.

At 90% of Queenslanders fully vaccinated

• No entry restrictions or quarantine for vaccinated arrivals from interstate or overseas
• Unvaccinated travellers will need to apply for a border pass, or enter within the international arrivals cap, and undertake up to 14 days (subject to review by AHPPC) quarantine

Posted 12 October 2021

Last week Australia’s Prime Minister released Australia’s plan for reopening to the world. Under this plan, large parts of the country will be moving from Phase B to Phase C of the National Plan, which means that international travel should reopen to fully vaccinated Australian travellers in November.

Posted 30 September 2021

Four Local Government Areas in Southeast Queensland along with Townsville and Palm Island will enter stage 2 restrictions from 4pm today.

The affected LGAs are Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Moreton Bay, Townsville and Palm Island.

All Queenslanders are encouraged to regularly monitor the list of exposure venues on the Queensland Health website.

The roadmap with stage 2 restrictions can be found at the Covid-19 website.

Read the Queensland Government media statement – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93380

Stage 2 Lockdown Restrictions

MASKS

• Must be worn outdoors when unable to stay 1.5m apart from people who are not part of your household
• Must be worn in indoor spaces (including workplaces, but not your own home) unless you can stay 1.5m apart from other people
• Must wear a mask while waiting for public transport in a public space such as a bus stop, taxi rank or train station.
• Must be carried at all times when you leave home

BUSINESSES AND VENUES

• Indoors: 1 person per 4 sqm 
• Outdoors: 1 person per 2 sqm
• Patrons must be seated to eat and drink
• Smaller venues up to 200 sqm: 1 person per 2 sqm, up to a maximum of 50

GATHERINGS

• Up to 30 people in homes (including those who live there) and public spaces
• Weddings: up to 100 people. A maximum of 20 people can dance
• Funerals: up to 100 people
• Indoor and outdoor events: 75% allocated seated and ticketed capacity, or 1 person per 4 sqm indoors and 1 person per 2 sqm outdoors
• Stadiums: 75% capacity with ticketed and allocated seating 

For more information click here

Posted 27 September 2021

The Commonwealth and Queensland Governments have reached agreement to further target $70m from the State and Federal Governments $600m support package to boost support for Queensland’s major tourism and hospitality businesses who continue to face significant hardship.

Iconic Tourism Grants

Grants of up to $4 million will be available to ensure that major tourism enterprises remain viable and are ready to scale up as visitation returns.

Second Round of the Tourism and Hospitality Sector Hardship Program

A second round of grants of $15,000, $25,000 and $50,000 will be available for small, medium and large employing businesses across the state that have experienced a reduction in turnover of at least 70 per cent for at least seven consecutive days between 1 July and 30 September.

These grants are open to eligible businesses across Queensland, with applications for both schemes set to open in October 2021.

Funding guidelines, including eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions will be available soon at https://www.dtis.qld.gov.au/our-work/tourism-hospitality-sector-hardship-program

Businesses can also email tourism@dtis.qld.gov.au to receive an update when the program guidelines are available.

For more information on the program go to Tourism and Hospitality Sector Hardship Program | Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport (dtis.qld.gov.au)

Factsheet

Read the full media release – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93322

Posted 13 September 2021

From 1am Monday 13 September 2021 people who have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine will be allowed to cross the Queensland border to or from the identified New South Wales border zone for essential work, including volunteer work, or other purposes, including going to school or receiving medical care.

To enter Queensland from the border zone people will need to complete a Queensland entry pass, get tested if you develop COVID-19 symptoms after entering the state, monitor interstate exposure sites and comply with stay at home and face mask requirements.

These arrangements apply to Ballina Shire, City of Lismore, Clarence Valley, Glen Innes Severn, Gwydir Shire, Inverell Shire, Kyogle, Moree Plains Shire, Richmond Valley, Tenterfield Shire and Tweed Shire local government areas. 

Anyone entering Queensland from these areas must not have been in another locked down New South Wales LGA or have been in contact with someone who has been there in the past 14 days.

Brewarrina Shire, Bourke Shire, Walgett Shire and the Unincorporated Far West local government areas will remain subject to current restrictions.

Posted 30 August 2021

Restrictions eased as planned from 4pm, Friday 27 August in Queensland.  

The same restrictions are applied across the state:

• gatherings of up to 100 will be allowed in homes
• 200 attendees for weddings and funerals
• capacities will be doubled in indoor venues to 1/2m2
• stadiums will go to 100% capacity (you must wear a mask, unless eating or drinking in your seats)
• cinemas, theatres and lecture spaces will also have 100% capacity

It’s important we all continue to wear masks when you can’t socially distance, this stance will be reviewed every two weeks – keep them on when you’re in line, when you’re walking into indoor venues such as cafes until you’re seated to eat and drink. High school students will also need to keep wearing masks.

Posted 25 August 2021

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced an immediate pause on interstate hotspot arrivals into Queensland’s hotel quarantine.

From noon today 25th August 2021, no-one will be permitted to enter Queensland and enter hotel quarantine for a period of two weeks except for those with exemptions including for compassionate reasons.

The Premier said our hotels are full.

The Premier said that while Queensland has welcomed more than 30,000 moving from other states to a better life in Queensland, these numbers cannot be managed in hotel quarantine at the current rate. Between August 9 and 20, 2,750 were granted border passes to relocate to Queensland.

That includes 1,993 in a single week.

For more information go to the Queensland Health website: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19 

Qld Media Statement – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93039

Posted 24 August 2021

The Queensland Government’s Check In Qld app will be compulsory for taxis, limousines and rideshare operators across Queensland to display from Monday 30 August to assist with contact tracing efforts. 

Qld Media statement – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/93001

Posted 18 August 2021

From 4pm Friday, restrictions will ease in the local government areas of Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Lockyer, Somerset, Logan, Redland, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa and Scenic Rim.

They include allowing:

• up to 30 people in homes and public spaces
• up to 100 attendees at weddings with a maximum of 20 people dancing
• up to 100 attendees at funerals
• community sport, with reduced spectators and in line with density requirements
• indoor venues can operate 1 person per 4m2, smaller venues (up to 200 m2) can operate with 1 per 2m2 indoors with a maximum of 50 people;
• outdoor venues can operate with 1 person per 2m2;
• eating and drinking must be seated;
• 75 per cent ticketed and allocated seating capacity for stadiums, indoor and outdoor events.

Restrictions put in place in the Cairns and Yarrabah local government areas following two cases will also be lifted to match those in the rest of the state.

Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said with the easing of restrictions in those 11 local government areas there would also be an easing in the requirements for wearing masks.

“While you no longer have to wear a mask at all times, you are still required to carry one with you when you leave home,” Dr Young said.

“You must wear it indoors – places like shopping centres, supermarkets, retail outlets, hospitals and aged care facilities – or if you are outside and unable to physically distance.

“Face masks have played a big part in our ability to contain the latest clusters. A mask is a simple weapon against a complex virus.

“That’s why for an extra week from this Friday, school students will also be required to continue wearing masks in a classroom setting.”

Qld Government media release – Relaxed weekend beckons as restrictions ease sooner across Queensland

Posted 2 August 2021

Lockdown will be extended in South-East Queensland until 4pm Sunday 8 August.

If you are in the local government areas of Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley and Scenic Rim, you can only leave home for the four permitted reasons.

• COVID-19 Business Support Grant ($5,000): 2021 COVID-19 Business Support Grants for lockdown-impacted businesses in Queensland | Business Queensland
• COVID19 Disaster Payments: COVID-19 Disaster Payment – Services Australia
• Financial Counsellors:
  • Northern Queensland: www.rfcsnq.com.au/small-business/free-financial-counselling-for-small-business
  • Southern Queensland: www.rfcssq.org.au/small-business-assistance

COVID19 Tourism Response Team: if you have any questions about COVID-safe planning or applying the Public Health Directions in their business reach out to tourismresponse@dtis.qld.gov.au

Posted 1 August 2021

Posted 26 July 2021

The current face mask restrictions have been extended to 6am Friday 30 July for people in South East Queensland and anyone who has visited the region in the last 14 days.

From 6am tomorrow (Friday 23 July) other restrictions will be eased in the 11 South East Queensland local government areas to match the current restrictions for the rest of the state.

The eased restrictions include:

• Indoor venues: one person per 2 square metres, or 100 per cent capacity with ticketed and allocated seating.
• Weddings and funerals: one person per 2 square metres, 200 people, or 100 per cent capacity with ticketed and allocated seating, whichever is greatest.
• Private indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 100 people.

Check for updates on the Restrictions for Impacted Areas – South East Queensland page or the Roadmap to easing restrictions page.

Border restrictions will change from 1am Friday 23 July with all of New South Wales to be declared a COVID-19 hot spot. A New South Wales Border Zone will also come into effect at that time.

Posted 22 July 2021

Queensland’s border with all of New South Wales will close to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread. This means Queensland is now closed to NSW, Victoria and South Australia.

Restrictions include:

Declaration of all of New South Wales as a hotspot from 1am on Friday, July 23. A border zone will be put into place, however residents living in the nominated border zone will be able to come into Queensland for a limited range of reasons, including health care, work, education, essential shopping and if they provide care to vulnerable people.

Mask wearing will be extended and strengthened in the 11 South East Queensland local government areas of Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Logan City, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Gold Coast for one more week until 6am on Friday, July 30. Masks will now be required to be worn in all indoor seated, ticketed venues. This includes all stadiums, theatres and cinemas.

Stadiums across the state with a capacity of 20,000 spectators or more will be required to reduce capacity to 75 per cent. Spectators will now be required to wear masks while seated unless consuming food or drink, in addition to current mask wearing requirements.

Density restrictions in South East Queensland will be eased to match current levels in the regions. This means increased numbers of people allowed at weddings, funerals and indoor events.

New South Wales will remain a declared hotspot for four weeks, with a possible earlier review pending the outcome of their current outbreak.

For more updates on restrictions click here and for more details about border restrictions click here.

Posted 15 July 2021

Restrictions for South East Queensland will continue for another 7 days until 6am on Friday, 23 July

This applies to Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Noosa, Redlands, Scenic Rim, Somerset and Sunshine Coast local government areas.

Restrictions will ease in the local government areas of Townsville and Palm Island at 6am tomorrow (Friday 16 July) as planned.Face masks – you must continue to carry a face mask with you at all times. You must always wear a face mask when outside your home.

Business restrictions to continue:

• All businesses must have one person per 4 square metres on their premises indoors, one person per 2 square metres outdoors, or 100 per cent capacity with ticketed and allocated seating.
• Businesses with an indoor floor space of less than 200 square metres can have one person per 2 square metres, up to 50 people at a time.
• Restricted businesses must use the COVID Safe Checklist for impacted areas. 
• Restaurants and cafes must have seated eating and drinking, no standing allowed. Contact details must also be collected for takeaway customers in an impacted area.
• Wedding ceremonies are allowed 100 people and limited to 20 people dancing at any one time.
• Funerals are allowed 100 people.

Dancing is not allowed except at weddings (for 20 guests at a time) and dance studios or dance classes.

Posted 8 July 2021

National Cabinet agreed to formulate a national plan to transition Australia’s National COVID-19 Response from its current pre vaccination settings – www.pm.gov.au/sites/default/files/media/national-plan-to-transition-australias-national-covid-19-response-july-2021.pdf

Posted 5 July 2021

Lockdown restrictions will be lifted for Brisbane and Moreton Bay local government areas from 6pm, Saturday 3 July 2021 with additional measures in place until 6pm 16 July.

Face mask wearing and gathering restrictions will continue until 6pm 16 July for communities in the Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Ipswich, Logan City, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim, Townsville and Palm Island areas.

Businesses are reminded to ensure customers are checking in at venues to assist with ongoing contact tracing efforts.

Frequently asked questions for businesses including ways to support customers to check in are available on the Queensland Government’s website.

Information is being updated regularly so keep checking back for updates and additional information on the Queensland Government’s Roadmap to easing restrictions.

National Plan to transition Australia’s National COVID Response

National Cabinet agreed in-principle that the plan consists of the following phases, each triggered by the achievement of vaccination thresholds expressed as a percentage of the eligible population (16+), based on the scientific modelling currently being conducted for the COVID-19 Risk Analysis and Response Task Force.

A. Current Phase – Vaccinate, prepare and pilot

Continue to suppress the virus for the purpose of minimising community transmission. 

B. Post Vaccination Phase

Seek to minimise serious illness, hospitalisation and fatality as a result of COVID-19. 

C. Consolidation Phase

Manage COVID-19 consistent with public health management of other infectious diseases. 

D. Final Phase

Manage COVID-19 consistent with public health management of other infectious diseases.

Read the National Cabinet Statement – www.pm.gov.au/media/national-cabinet-statement-6

Posted 30 June 2021

From 6pm Tuesday 29 June to 6pm Friday 2 July 2021, 13 local government areas including South East Queensland (Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, Redlands, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Noosa, Somerset, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim), Townsville (including Magnetic Island), and Palm Island will be in lockdown to keep Queenslanders safe.

• Non-essential businesses must close, including cinemas, entertainment and recreation venues, hairdressers, beauty and personal care services, gyms and places of worship.
• Restaurants and cafes can provide takeaway or home delivery services only.
• Funerals are limited to 20 people.
• Weddings are limited to 10 people, including the celebrant and the couple.
• Childcare centres can remain open.

For definitions of essential and non-essential businesses, the updated Public Health Direction – Restrictions for Impacted Areas Direction No. 5 – is now available under
Schedule 3. Schedule 3 highlights that contact information is required to be collected for
takeaway services.

Frequently asked questions for businesses are available on the Queensland Government’s website, and these will be regularly updated.

A new roadmap outlines restrictions for lock down areas as well as current restrictions in place for all of Queensland.

For the latest information keep referring to the Queensland Government’s website

Posted 29 June 2021

From 6pm today Tuesday 29 June until 6pm Friday, 2 July, South East Queensland, Townsville and Palm Island will go into a three-day lock down.
 

People in these regions must wear a mask when they leave home and can only leave their homes for the following reasons:

• obtaining essential goods or services, including healthcare (including vaccinations)
• exercise
• attending essential work or childcare
• assisting vulnerable persons.

Non-essential businesses are not allowed to operate. Cinemas, entertainment and recreation venues, hairdressers, beauty and personal care services, gyms and places of worship will all close.

Childcare centres will remain open.

Restaurants and cafes can provide take away or home delivery services only.

Funerals will be limited to 20 people, and weddings will be limited to 10 people, including the celebrant and the couple.

Restrictions on aged care, hospitals, disability care and correctional facilities apply with no personal visitors allowed.

This applies to the following 13 Local Government Areas:

• Noosa
• Sunshine Coast
• Ipswich
• Logan
• Redlands
• Moreton Bay
• Brisbane
• Gold Coast
• ​​​​​​​Scenic Rim
• Lockyer Valley
• ​​​​​​​Somerset
• Townsville City
• ​​​​​​​Palm Island Aboriginal Shire

Read more – www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/restrictions-in-qld-update

Qld Government Media Release – statements.qld.gov.au/statements/92535

Posted 28 June 2021

From 1am 29 June, the following new restrictions in South East Queensland will take effect:

Restrictions in Queensland are being implemented for 11 South East Queensland local government areas from 1am tomorrow morning (Tuesday 29 June 2021).

If you are in any of these regions you must:

• carry a mask and wear it whenever you are outside the house (excluding vigorous exercise or when seated).
• you must be seated when eating or drinking at a cafe or restaurant.
• you can remove your face mask when you are indoors if you are:
  • travelling alone in a private vehicle or with members of your household
  • working alone or with members of your family in an indoor workplace
  • indoor workplaces when physical distancing is possible, and you don’t interact with members of the public.

Capacities for indoor venues have returned to one person per 4m² for indoor premises and one person per 2m² outdoors or for venues under 200m². You can now have up to 30 people at private gatherings and 100 people for weddings and funerals.

This applies to the following 11 LGAs:

• Brisbane
• Ipswich
• Logan
• Moreton Bay
• Redlands
• Sunshine Coast
• Noosa
• Somerset
• Lockyer Valley
• Scenic Rim
• Gold Coast

These restrictions will be reviewed on Tuesday 13 July 2021.
 

Restrictions for the rest of Queensland
Anyone who has been in South East Queensland in the past 14 days must carry and wear a mask.

Restrictions for the rest of the state have also been increased temporarily with indoor venues allowed 1 person per 2m², weddings and funerals capped at up to 200 people or 1 person per 2m².

Restricted businesses and indoor events must use the COVID Save Checklist.

Anyone who has been to a declared hotspot or interstate exposure venue of concern must not visit a Queensland residential aged care facility or shared disability accommodation service centre.

Read more – Support for business

From 1:00am, Monday 28 June 2021, the following Directions were updated:

• Border Restrictions Direction (No.26)
• Queensland Travel Declaration Direction (No.3)
• Operational protocol for freight movements entering Queensland
• Operational protocol for disaster management workers entering Queensland
• Protocol for maritime crew members joining or signing off a vessel in Queensland

The following changes came into effect:

Queensland Travel Declaration Direction:

• Border zone residents are required to complete a Queensland Travel Declaration.

Border Restrictions Direction:

• a person from a State or Territory with a COVID-19 hotspot must complete a Queensland Border Declaration if they have been in the COVID-19 hotspot in the previous 14 days or since the identified start date for the hotspot, whichever is less.
• a person who has not been in a COVID-19 hotspot is not required to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass. They must complete a Queensland Travel Declaration.

The three protocols have been updated to reflect the changes to the Border Pass and Travel Declaration requirements.

More information about Queensland’s Public Health Directions can be found on the Queensland Health website.

Posted 23 June 2021

In addition to the hospitality sector, from 1am Friday 9 July, the Check In Qld app will be mandatory for a number of new sectors, including:

• venues that attract large crowds, such as stadiums, convention centres, theme parks, concert venues and cinemas
• shopping centres and supermarkets
• beauty and personal care service, such as hairdressing, beauty therapy and nail services
• indoor events, such as cultural festival and expos
• outdoor events, such as fun runs and fetes
• leisure and recreation facilities, such as gyms, health clubs, indoor sports facilities and indoor pools
• short-term residential facilities such as hotels, boarding houses and short-term holiday rentals
• outdoor recreation, such as caravan parks, camping areas, zoos and aquariums
• public-facing government services, such as customer service counters in government buildings, galleries, museums, libraries and community centres such as recreation halls
• weddings, funerals and places of worship (only required if indoor)
• higher education institutions, such as universities, TAFEs and registered training organisations
• adult entertainment venues
• hospitals, residential aged care, disability service accommodation (applies to visitors, volunteers and contractors, not staff or patients/residents).

Read more – www.covid19.qld.gov.au/check-in-qld

Posted 21 June 2021

A further easing of restrictions has been announced that will allow more people into more places.

From 1am this Friday (25th June 2021):

•    Indoor venues can grow from one person per two square metres to three people per four square metres including hostels and B and Bs, an increase of 50%
•    No limit on gatherings in homes
•    No limit on outdoor places
•    No restrictions on aged care, disability services and hospitals 
•    Self-service food is back

More information on the restrictions is available online or click here for a copy of the Roadmap.

21/6/2021 Qld Government media release – Economic Recovery Plan Roadmap to more eased restrictions

Posted 26th May

Restrictions update—Victoria’s recent COVID-19 cases

Border restrictions

The following measures will be put into place for anyone entering Queensland:

• From 1am AEST Wednesday 26 May – anyone arriving into Queensland who has been in the City of Whittlesea local government area on or since May 11 will go into hotel quarantine unless they have a valid exemption.
• From 1am Thursday 27 May – everyone arriving from Victoria will be required to complete a border pass. Anyone of those arrivals who have been in the City of Whittlesea local government area on or since 11 May and are a non-resident will be turned away unless they have an exemption to enter the state. Queensland residents or those given an exemption to enter the state will go into hotel quarantine.

Hotspots

From 1am AEST Thursday 27 May 2021, the City of Wittlesea local government area in Victoria will be a declared COVID-19 hotspot.

Visits to aged care facilities, disability accomodation services, hospitals and correctional facilities

From 1am AEST Wednesday 26 May anyone who has been in Greater Melbourne on or after 11 May cannot enter these facilities unless 14 days have passed since they were there:

• aged care facilities
• disability accommodation services
• hospitals
• correctional facilities

For more information visit https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/urgent-covid-19-update.

Posted 15 April 2021

From 1 May 2021 the Check In Qld app is mandatory for cafés, restaurants, pubs and clubs.

The Check In Qld app will help venues stay open for business with confidence that staff and customers are protected.

The app is free, safe, fast and easy to use. Contract tracing and testing are the best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Hospitality businesses register here – https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/check-in-qld/check-in-qld-registration-form

Information for businesses

Businesses will only need to comply with the relevant terms of the Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction (No. 17). Customers at cafes and pubs can stand up to eat and drink and dancing will be allowed. 

• Businesses can operate with one person per 2 square metres.
• Retail food services, entertainment venues and high risk businesses can open for standing eating and drinking, both inside and outside.
• Dancing is allowed, with one person per 2 square metres and physical distancing observed both indoors and outdoors.
• 100% capacity at ticketed and allocated seated venues with patrons encouraged to wear masks on entry and exit (e.g. theatres, live music venues, cinemas, indoor sports).
• Wedding ceremonies and funerals can have one person per 2 square metres, or 200 people or 100% allocated seated and ticketed capacity, whichever is greater.
• All wedding guests can dance (indoors and outdoors) subject to the one person per 2 square metre rule.

Posted 14 April 2021

From 6am Thursday, 15 April, several restrictions will be relaxed in Queensland, meaning masks will only be mandatory in certain settings and families can visit ill or elderly relatives in hospital or nursing homes as normal.

Face masks will only be mandatory in airports and on planes. Masks will no longer be required in indoor spaces such as shopping centres, supermarkets, retail outlets or public transport or outdoors when you can’t physically distance, however masks will still be required in high risk settings such as hospitals and aged care facilities

Hospital patients, aged care and disability accommodation residents and prison inmates can resume receiving visitors as normal. There will still be circumstances under which people cannot visit high-risk facilities across Queensland. More information is available on Queensland Health’s website.

Gatherings in private residences (homes and accommodation) will increase from 30 to 100.

There will be no restrictions on the number of people that can gather in public spaces.

Retail food services, entertainment venues and high-risk businesses can open for standing when eating and drinking, both inside and outside.

All restrictions previously in place for outdoor based businesses, activities and undertakings will be removed, except for dance and music festivals which still need to meet some requirements.

Dancing is allowed under the one person per 2 square metre rule and physical distancing observed both indoors and outdoors.

Media Release – The great outdoors beckon as Queensland relaxes restrictions – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91882

Posted 1 April 2021

The Lock Down in Greater Brisbane will be lifted from 12 noon today.

However for the next two (2) weeks, Queenslanders and visitors must carry a mask and wear their mask inside shopping centres etc.

You must be seated at venues, with no dancing allowed.

Private functions are limited to 30 people at home.

Easter church services can go ahead at full capacity if all are registered

For more information, visit – https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19

Posted 30 March 2021

Restrictions for Queensland

Effective from: 5.00pm (AEST) 29 March 2021

Effective until: 5.00pm (AEST) 1 April 2021

 GATHERING IN AREAS OUTSIDE IMPACTED AREA

A person who owns, controls or operates premises, other than a residence, in an area outside an impacted area must not organise or allow a gathering of more than 30 people to occur on the premises.

A maximum of 500 people can gather publicly in an outdoor space in an area outside an impacted area.

Impacted Areas Q&A

Restrictions for Queensland

What you can and can’t do

Face Masks

FACE MASKS IN AREAS OUTSIDE AN IMPACTED AREA – as listed below.

Posted 29 March 2021

These requirements are for ALL OF QUEENSLAND: 

• You must carry a face mask with you at all times when you leave home, unless you have a lawful reason not to
• You must wear a mask in indoor spaces, such as:
   – shopping centres, supermarkets, retail outlets and indoor markets
   – hospitals and aged care facilities
   – hospitality venues such as restaurants and cafés (not required for patrons while seated; customer facing staff only)
   – churches and places of worship
   – libraries
   – indoor recreational facilities and gyms (except if doing strenuous exercise)
   – indoor workplaces (where safe to wear a mask and you can’t physically distance)
   – public transport, taxis and rideshare, including waiting areas and queues for this transport
   – airports and travelling on planes
• It’s strongly recommended you wear a mask outdoors if you are unable to stay more than 1.5m away from other people, such as in busy walkways and thoroughfares
• Masks do not need to be worn in some circumstances, including children under 12 years, where people have certain medical conditions, and in workplaces where it is not safe to do so
• You can remove your mask to eat and drink

But a note on those locations where you need to wear a mask — just because they are on this list, it does not mean they will be open across lockdown zones during the lockdown period. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-29/covid-live-brisbane-lockdown-three-days-masks-mandatory/100034214

Posted 23 March 2021

Queensland Health is continuing to actively respond to the declared public health emergency in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19).  On 17 March 2021, the Border Restrictions Direction was revoked. This means there are currently no COVID-19 hotspots in Australia, and you are free to enter Queensland from any Australian state or territory for any purpose. Border restrictions or operational protocols may be reinstated in the future if a COVID-19 hotspot is declared.

Further information regarding recently amended restrictions can be found below.

Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction

• Outdoor events with fewer than 500 people per day can occur without:
  • a COVID Safe Event Checklist
  • any occupant density requirements
  • having to collect contact information.

• A business may allow one person per two square metres or up to 100% of seated venue capacity where patrons are ticketed and in allocated seating.
• Caravan and campgrounds are no longer a restricted business, activity or undertaking and can now operate without occupant density requirements or an Industry Plan. However, they must continue to collect contact information and increased cleaning of shared facilities is encouraged.
  • Camping in national parks and forests is very popular, so visitors wanting to camp should book at spot at Queensland National Parks.

Movement and Gathering Direction

• Up to 500 people may gather in public outdoor spaces – previously 100 people.
• Up to 100 people may gather at private properties including residences – previously 50 people.

COVID Safe outdoor seated venues

• Open air stadiums can have 100% seated capacity (with COVID Safe plans in place, and where patrons are ticked and in allocated seating).

COVID Safe Checklist for businesses operating vehicles and vessels up to 50 people

• While there are no physical distancing requirements on vessels, passengers must be informed of this as they have the right to choose not to board the vessel.
• The coaches for shore excursions will need to adhere to this checklist if they wish to carry more than one passenger per four square metres.

Boats, Buses and Trains over 50 passengers

Boats

• The protocol for maritime crew members joining or signing off a vessel in Queensland can be found here.
• Point-to-point private ferries will be required to operate under the same COVID safe requirements as public ferries provided the private ferry service is under three hour travel time. For clarity, these private ferries may operate as: • 100% of indoor seated capacity provided patrons are in ticketed and allocated seating • Passengers on day trips are to return to the same seat for the return journey • Mask wearing is encouraged • Recommended that only one person per two seats unless sitting in a household or social group.
• Round trip day vessels will be required to operate with: A capacity of one person per two square metres based on accessible indoor and outdoor space provided the outdoor space offers protection when inclement weather is expected (e.g. from the sun and rain). OR Up to 100% of indoor seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating to allow for inclement weather, except the kiosk (e.g. food and beverage kiosk) where passengers must maintain 1.5m physical distancing from these areas. Operators must also manage the outdoor space to maintain one person per two square metres in these areas.
• Live-aboard marine vessels are able to operate for 1 person per 2m2 in sleeping areas, for up to 50 people.

Buses/Coaches

• Up to 100% of seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating. Operators must also manage the outdoor/shared spaced to allow for 1.5 metres physical distancing to the extent possible, this would include arrival/departure areas, group staging areas. Mask wearing is encouraged.

Trains

• Up to 100% of indoor seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating, except the kiosk (e.g. food and beverage kiosk) where passengers must maintain 1.5 metres physical distancing in these areas. Operators must also manage the outdoor/shared spaces to allow for 1.5 metres physical distancing to the extent possible, this would include arrival/departure areas, group staging areas.

Please review the Check in Qld app  recently released by the Queensland Government for use by Queensland Businesses to collect COVID-19 contact information for patrons and staff at your business.

Tourism and events businesses can continue to operate under COVID Safe Industry Plan for Queensland Tourism and Accommodation and further information about existing or revoked Public Health Directions is available on the Queensland Health website.

Posted 18 March 2021

For more information on preparing for the end of JobKeeper, read the update from CCIQ – www.cciq.com.au/coronavirus-information/available-support/government-support/jobkeeper-payment/

Download the Fact Sheet – www.cciq.com.au/assets/JobKeeper-Fact-sheet-including-letters.pdf

Posted 16 March 2021

The Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Treasurer and Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, announced a $1.2 billion tourism and aviation package (please refer to media release).

Key support measures for the tourism industry include:

• Tourism Aviation Network Support Package (Department of Infrastructure led)
• Business Events Grants Program (Austrade led)
• Supporting Australia’s Exhibiting Zoos and Aquariums Program (Austrade led)
• COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program extension (Austrade led)
• SME Recovery Loan Scheme (Treasury led)

Posted 1 March 2021

Tourism and Events Queensland have updated their corporate website about “Operating your business safely” to make it a little easier to navigate through the volume of information available – https://teq.queensland.com/industry-resources/industry-resilience/update-on-covid-19/covid19-resources-to-keep-your-business-safe

Posted 24 February 2021

Safe Work Australia has information and resources for employers, small businesses and workers on the COVID-19 vaccines and how to manage risks from COVID-19 in the workplace. – https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/covid-19-information-workplaces

Posted 5 February 2021

Tourism business requirements for visitors from Greater Melbourne – Poster

Posted 1 February 2021

Tourism and Events Queensland has prepared a poster to assist tourism operators to notify guests of the public health requirements relating to the new Western Australia hotspots – loaded online here.

Posted 28 January 2021

Queensland will reopen to all of New South Wales at 1am on Monday, 1 February.

Restrictions for the Greater Brisbane area will be eased from 1am Friday 22 January 2021, returning to Stage 6 — the same level as the rest of the state. The full list of changes and an updated Roadmap are now available.

While everyone is encouraged to carry a face mask and wear it where you cannot socially distance, from Friday, only people at Queensland airports, on domestic commercial flights, international arrivals travelling from the airport to quarantine accommodation and their drivers must wear face masks. More information including FAQs is available on the Mandatory Face Masks Direction.

Restrictions for businesses and events in Greater Brisbane will return to the requirements set out in the current Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction (No. 12). Please continue to support good hygiene practices and social distancing along with your obligations under the COVID Safe Framework.Posted 12 January 2021

COVID-19 Update – easing of restrictions for Greater Brisbane 

From 6pm Monday 11 January to 1am Friday 22 January 2021 eased restrictions are in place for the Greater Brisbane region (Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton, and Redlands).

You can:

• read more about the restrictions in place
• view the COVID-19 Roadmap (PDF, 175KB)

Find out more from the Queensland Health website and the comprehensive Q&As. 

What the latest Greater Brisbane restrictions mean for Queensland’s tourism operators​ 

Brisbane’s restrictions also apply to people who have since left the region. 

The Queensland Government and Tourism and Events Queensland have published a fact sheet for tourism operators about how to manage these visitors. 

COVID-19 Industry support resources newsletter – https://www.vision6.com.au/v/75506/1069325/email.html?k=P6FtERFeas5mIgwu9q9f2g031HL_hLZrX7YKkfzSAv8

Posted 24 December

The Chief Health Officer has approved relaxations to COVID Safe requirements on marine tourism vessels:

Private point to point ferry services under three hours travel time – 

• Can operate 100 per cent of indoor seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating
• Passengers on day trips must return in their allocated seat
• Mask wearing encouraged
• Outside of household and social groups, one person per two seats

Round trip day vessels –

• Can operate with a capacity of one person per two square metres based on accessible indoor and protected outdoor spaces instead of previous one person per four metres, or
• Can use up to 100 per cent of indoor seated capacity provided passengers are in ticketed and allocated seating
• Passengers must maintain 1.5 metres physical distancing in food and drink kiosk areas
• Operators must also manage the outdoor space to maintain one person per two square metres in these areas.

Read more: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91240

The Qld government has announced that paper registration of customers is not sufficient – details must be recorded electronically which will begin to be enforced by Christmas Eve (media release).

Posted 21 December

From 1am Tuesday the 22^nd of December, Queenslanders returning from Greater Sydney will be required to get a border pass to enter Queensland and undertake 14 days of mandatory hotel quarantine.

Queensland businesses have been asked to address existing health requirements, including contact tracing around check-in processes and patron limits with paper registration no longer sufficient.

Read more – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91218

COVID-19 Industry support resources – Advice regarding the NSW Northern Beaches COVID-19 cluster https://www.vision6.com.au/v/75506/1063321/email.html?k=lWaSZZ_8lk-4FIjyLYiwLPcM-Kyux8cT94F2mNuOq68

QR Code generator – https://www.qr-code-generator.com/

Guest and staff contact information requirements – https://www.health.qld.gov.au/system-governance/legislation/cho-public-health-directions-under-expanded-public-health-act-powers/business-activity-undertaking-direction/guest-and-staff-contact-information-requirements

Posted 18 December

Queensland will enforce mandatory hotel quarantine for anyone has been in Sydney’s Northern Beaches region. The new arrangements mean:

• Anyone who was in the Northern Beaches region since Friday 11 December 2020 and is already in Queensland should get tested and quarantine in their home or accommodation for 14 days from the date they left the Northern Beaches.
• Anyone who was in the Northern Beaches region who arrives in Queensland after 1am on Saturday 19 December 2020 must go into hotel quarantine at their own expense for 14 days from the date they left the Northern Beaches, and get tested.

This includes both interstate visitors and Queensland residents returning home. Read more – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/91204

Posted 15 December

From Saturday 12th December 2020, New Zealanders can holiday in Queensland without entering mandatory hotel quarantine when they arrive now that Queensland is included in the Trans-Tasman Safe Travel Zone.

It coincides with the lifting of the state’s last remaining border restrictions on hotspots in South Australia effective from 1am Saturday 12 December. Read more – capricornenterprise.com.au/2020/12/kiwis-are-good-to-go/

Posted 11 December

The Premier has announced easing of restrictions for dancing, commencing from noon Monday 14 December. Dancing will be allowed indoors, subject to the to the 1 person per 2 square metre rule.

• Businesses should ensure patrons practice physical distancing in dance areas.
• Community facilities (such as PCYC’s) are no longer restricted by the 50 person limit where there is no COVID-safe Plan or Checklist in place.
• Businesses are required to keep contact details for a minimum of 30 days and a maximum of 56 days.
• Unattended children’s rides and games in retail premises can operate.
• There is a new definition of ‘ticketed and allocated seating’

Read more – https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/business-activity

Posted 3 December

With the latest easing of restrictions, effective from 1am Tuesday 1 December 2020, dancing is allowed outdoors (eg outdoor music festivals, beer gardens), subject to the 1 person per 2 square metre rule. Indoor dancing is only allowed at weddings and school events.

Outdoor areas are considered to be areas which:

• have fixed or temporary boundaries but is not fully enclosed
• are open to the elements
• have natural air flow.

An outdoor area can include a veranda, balcony, deck, patio or similar structure that might be connected to an external wall of a building and also have a roof, awning or eave. It might also include a rotunda, tarpaulin or shade structure situated in a larger open space.

An outdoor area does not include:

• atriums that are internal to a building
• temporary or permanent marquees (except if walls or panels are lifted for the duration of the event)
• tents (e.g. circus or performance tents).

If curtain walls, panel walls or other fittings are used to fully enclose an area to protect from the elements, it should be considered as indoor. This includes if bad weather means these are used for short periods to partially enclose an area for customer comfort and safety.

Posted 25 November

Queensland’s two largest domestic tourism markets will be able to return to the state from next Tuesday, 1 December following the Queensland Government’s announcements that border restrictions will be lifted for all of New South Wales and Victoria.

Details on how to cross the border and changes to the Border Restriction Direction will be updated on this webpage as the Queensland Government releases more information, and TEQ’s traveller advice page will also be updated accordingly.

Read more – https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/border-restrictions

Important Contact Points

• Queensland Health for health advice or information 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
• Australian Government COVID-19 Disability Information Helpline 1800 643 787
• Queenslanders with Disability Network Local Support Groups 1300 363 783
• NDIS Participant Information and FAQ’s 1800 800 110 or click here
• COVID-19 National hotline for people with symptoms 1800 022 222
• COVID-19 National hotline for non-medical information 1800 020 080
• Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349
• If you are experiencing domestic violence, please contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
• MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978 and the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 789 978.
• For personal crisis and mental health support services you can contact
• Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1800 512 348 at any time.
• Kids Helpline is a free service for young people aged 5 to 25. Kids, teens and young adults can call 1800 551 800 at any time.
• The following checklists have been updated to reflect the current public health directions. They are available on the Covid Safe Businesses website at https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/government-actions/covid-safe-businesses :
  • Dining and Drinking
  • Food Courts
  • Personal Services

Posted 13th November

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has announced a further easing of restrictions as Queensland continues its recovery from the pandemic.

From 4pm Tuesday, November 17:

• Gatherings: increase gatherings in homes and public spaces from 40 to 50 across Queensland
• Indoor premises: increase from one person per four square metres to one person per two square metres (eg restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs, indoor play areas, museums, art galleries, places of worship, convention centres and parliament house
• Weddings: up to 200 people can attend a wedding and all guests can dance
• Funerals: Up to 200 people can attend a funeral
• Indoor events: seated, ticket venues to increase from 50% to 100% (eg theatre, live music, cinemas and indoor sports) Performers can reduce distance from audience from 4m to 2m except choirs which remain at 4m from audience
• Outdoor events: increase outdoor events from 1000 to 1500 with a COVID safe checklist (larger events require a COVID safe plan)
• Open air stadiums: Increase seated Capacity from 75% to 100%
• Outdoor dancing: outdoor dancing allowed (eg outdoor music festivals)

Posted 26th October 2020

Queensland is currently operating under Stage 4 of the revised Roadmap for Queensland’s COVID Safe Future. Easing of restrictions includes:

• Gatherings of 40 people allowed in homes and public places.
• Up to 40 people can dance at weddings with a COVID Safe Plan.
• Dancing will be permitted at Year 12 school formals.
• Outings from aged care facilities can resume.

Posted 23rd October 2020

Queenslanders who are self isolating or in quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic can now access support with a $1500 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment. The payments are also available to Queenslanders who cannot earn an income because they are caring for someone who has COVID-19.

Queenslanders will not be eligible for the payment if they are receiving income, earnings or salary maintenance from work, receiving JobKeeper Payment or other forms of Australian or Queensland Government income support.

People can claim the payment again if their self-isolation or quarantine period is extended longer than 14 days.

To claim the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment call 180 22 66 or access information at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.

Posted 2 October 2020

From 4pm today, Queenslanders will be able to get a drink or a meal out without having to be seated.

Stage 4 of the Roadmap started at 1am on 1 October by extending the Northern NSW border zone and moving Queenslanders outside, where a Summertime Taskforce will also be established to identify more outdoor opportunities. Unseated drinking and eating will come into effect from 4pm 2 October.

If there is no unlinked community transmission in NSW for 28 days, Stage 5 could start from 1am 1 November and will see the Queensland border open up to NSW visitors and return travellers, while also increasing public gatherings to 40 people, permitting unseated drinking and eating at venues with a COVID Safe Plan and allowing up to 40 people to dance at a wedding with a COVID Safe Plan.

Stage 6, anticipated from 1am 1 December, will see public gatherings increase to 50 people, increased attendances at outdoor events and no restrictions on people dancing at weddings.

The Queensland border will remain closed to Victoria until community transmission is under control.

Read the Queensland Government Media Statement: Keeping Queensland’s future COVID safe – https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/90952

From 1 October 2020, the following changes come into effect under the Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction (No. 6):

• Outdoor density requirements have been relaxed for businesses with a COVID Safe Plan to one person per 2 square metres (previously one person per 4 square metres for venues or spaces of 200 square metres or more).
• The maximum number of attendees permitted at outdoor events with a COVID Safe Event Checklist has been increased from 500 to 1000 people per event (or per day for multi-day events).
• The seated capacity of outdoor stadiums and amphitheatres has been increased from 50 per cent to up to 75 per cent with a COVID Safe Plan.

This Direction replaces the former Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertakings Direction (No. 5) made on 24 July 2020. 

Posted 23rd September 2020

Queensland continues to track well in restricting the spread of COVID-19 and today no new cases have been reported. Currently in Queensland there are five (5) active cases.

• From 1:00am Friday 25 September 2020, the Australian Capital Territory will be removed from Queensland’s list of declared hotspots.
• From 1:00am Thursday 1 October 2020, the Queensland border zone will extend further into NSW to include the Byron, Ballina, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Glen Innes council areas. Residents can apply for a border pass and travel around Queensland for any purpose, and Queenslanders can travel to those places as well.
• Public health alerts continue to be issued for locations related to recent cases. The full list can be found on the Queensland Health website. Anyone who has been to these locations at these times should monitor their health and if they develop even the mildest of COVID-19 symptoms, get tested and isolate until you get your result. Find your nearest testing location here.
• Current COVID-19 hotspots are Victoria, ACT and New South Wales. COVID-19 hotspots are updated regularly here.
• Any person who has visited any local government area within the States of Victoria, ACT and New South Wales in the past 14 days will be turned away at the Queensland border. This applies to everyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days, with the exception of people needed in Queensland for essential purposes. Find out more here.
• Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home, but will be required to undergo mandatory quarantine in a hotel at their own expense for a minimum of 14 days. A person who refuses testing in quarantine will be subject to a further 10-day period at their cost.
• Any person from Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory may enter Queensland, subject to completing and signing a border declaration.
• If you breach any of the requirements under the Borders Direction, you may be subject to enforcement, including an on the spot fine of $1334 or a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345. If you provide false, misleading or incorrect information on a Border Declaration it is an offence punishable by a fine of $4,003, or a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345.
• The Queensland Border Declaration is valid for seven day and can be found at www.qld.gov.au/border-pass.
• Find out more about the plan for the management of Queensland’s borders.
• For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 including government support, visit covid19.qld.gov.au.

Posted 20th August 2020

Queensland Health has now released a comprehensive new set of questions and answers to aid event organisers to deliver COVID Safe events. The guidance covers more than 70 topics including everything from business events, exhibitions, live music, sporting and recreation events, to how to submit plans for approval and what happens if restrictions change in the meantime.

A short summary of the planning and approval requirements can be found here.

Posted 17th August 2020

AUS: JOBKEEPER PAYMENT EXTENDED – FACT SHEETS AVAILABLE

The Australian Government has extended the JobKeeper Payment by a further six months to March 2021. Support will be targeted to businesses and not-for-profits that continue to be significantly impacted by the Coronavirus. The payment rate will be reduced and a lower payment rate will be introduced for those who work fewer hours.  For more information, see: https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/jobkeeper

Posted 5th August 2020

Queensland borders will close to New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory from 1am this Saturday, August 8. The border to Victoria remains closed.

All visitors will be denied entry except for rare exemptions and returning Queenslanders will have to pay for 14 days mandatory hotel quarantine.

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer has declared all of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory as hotspots.

Only residents of border communities and essential workers, such as truck drivers, will be able to cross the border.Exemptions – including for compassionate reasons – will be limited.

Passes for border communities will be for those with proof of address and photo ID.

The border closure will be reviewed at the end of the month.

Read the Queensland Government media statement: http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/8/5/queensland-border-closed

Posted 27 July 2020

Restrictions on Businesses, Activities and Undertaking Direction (No.5)

The key changes to the Direction include:

1. Requirement for patrons to be seated when drinking and dining-in.
2. This restriction will apply to all businesses that serve food and drink including (but not limited to) retail food services (such as cafes and restaurants), licensed premises (such as hotels, clubs, pubs and nightclubs) and casinos, gaming or gambling venues.
3. Indoor and outdoor events may operate in compliance with an Approved Plan other than a COVID Safe Event Plan (such as an Industry Plan or Site Specific Plan), provided the Approved Plan covers all facets of the event.
4. Organisers of events that are larger than 500 people and operating under an existing Industry or Site Specific plan must notify Public Health Units of the event a minimum of 10 days before the event.
5. Alternatively, events may operate in accordance with the COVID Safe Event Framework (i.e. a COVID Safe Event Checklist for up to 500 people or a COVID Safe Event Plan approved by the relevant Public Health Authorities, depending on the size of the event).
6. Clarify contact tracing requirements on businesses

Fact-sheet for businesses on contact information, web-content available here.

Further information, including questions and answers, can be found on the Queensland Health website.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s COVID Clean Checklist is designed to help step businesses through the necessary processes to get back to business safely. The checklist is consistent with relevant Queensland Government requirements.

Over 200 Queensland tourism businesses are now COVID Clean, with over 400 more applications in progress. 

If you have reached a point in your application where you need some help, please get in touch with QTIC so that they may assist you. Log into the portal here.

Posted 21 July 2020

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg have announced changes to the JobKeeper program, extending beyond the existing September deadline, albeit with significant reductions.

JobKeeper will become a two-tier system based on the number of hours worked from 28th September and scaled back again on 4th January 2021. For more details, please click here.

Posted 16 July 2020

More jobs for Queenslanders as we unite and recover from the global pandemic — The Queensland Government has announced a $90 million package of additional measures under its economic recovery strategy: Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs. Details about all economic recovery initiatives can be found on the Unite and Recover website.

Back to Work extension in 2020–21 with $70 million available— Back to work payments are available to Queensland businesses that recruit an eligible worker who has been unemployed for at least four weeks. A new Apprentice and Trainee Boost of up to $20,000 will be available to employers who employ an eligible apprentice or trainee.

Skilling more Queenslanders for work with $10 million boost— The funding through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative will support paid Work Skills Traineeships on construction or conservation and land management projects around the state, which will be announced later this month.

$10 million Reef Assist program to support 200 jobs — Funding will support jobs on priority environmental projects in Great Barrier Reef catchments.

Read the Unite and Recover newsletter

Posted 13 July 2020

Queensland national parks camping and vehicle access

Most Queensland national parks, forests and recreation areas are reopened and operating in line with the Chief Health Officer-approved Industry COVID Safe Plan – QPWS Campgrounds. 

With the further easing of COVID-19 restrictions in accordance with the Queensland Government’s roadmap, more visitors are now able to be welcomed to national parks and are increasing visitor numbers across Queensland. As a result, most camping areas are now operating at their normal capacities.

Camping and vehicle access bookings can be made at https://qld.gov.au/camping.

While visitor number capacities for the Cooloola and Bribie Island Recreation Areas has also increased, people planning to visit these areas will still need to secure a COVID-19 Restricted Access Area Authority before travelling, even if they hold a valid vehicle access permit. These Authorities are available at no additional cost with the normal requirements for vehicle and camping permits.

Please note, a small number of camping areas in Far North Queensland are available for booking for local residents only.

Visitors should always check Park Alerts before leaving home for up-to-date information for a specific location.

Posted 10 July 2020

Border Declaration Pass

Applications for a Queensland border pass by people who reside outside Queensland ,and are not an exempt person, can now be made online:  https://www.qld.gov.au/border-pass/queensland-border-declaration-pass-july-10   This is the pass that visitors/tourists can apply for.

Posted 7th July 2020

Central Queensland’s pubs and clubs have been thrown a multi-million dollar lifeline with gaming taxes from March 2020 now deferred until 2021. Read the media release here.

Posted Friday 3rd July

Stage 3 Easing of Restrictions is in place from midday today, Friday 3 July, including border changes.  Queensland’s borders will remain closed to anyone who has been in Victoria within the past 14 days. 

From 12 noon 10 July, any person from all States and Territories, except Victoria, may enter Queensland subject to completing and signing a border declaration. Anyone entering Queensland from Victoria from 10 July will be subject to mandatory hotel quarantine.
Find out more. 

Read the COVID-19 Industry support resources update

Posted Wednesday 24th June 2020

If you would like assistance with your application to the State Government’s Small Business COVID-19 Adaption Grant Program, or other small business advice, the Rural Financial Counselling Services Southern Queensland is offering free assistance. Contact the Small Business Financial Counsellor, Capricorn Region, Sharon Kingston 0436 122 381. Click here for more information.

Posted Tuesday 16th June 2020

If you missed out on Round 1 of the State Government’s Small Business grant of $10,000 to assist with operational costs, you can apply for Round 2 opening on the 1^st July!

Only 1 application per round will be accepted from an individual ABN or a financial beneficiary of a business.

Successful applicants from round 1 of this program cannot apply for funding under round 2. If you have submitted a round 1 application but haven’t heard back yet, you are eligible to apply for round 2.

Small Business COVID-19 Adaption Grant Program – CLICK HERE TO APPLY! Round 2 opening 1 July 2020

The next phase in the Government’s economic recovery plan to back Queensland jobs, businesses and industries has been announced. The new package of measures continues to focus on jobs and the economy including investment in agriculture, tourism, construction, resources and energy, arts and culture and small business. For more information on how the recovery plan can assist your business, click the media release below.

http://statements.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/6/16/unite-and-recover-for-queensland-jobs–next-phase-of-economic-recovery-announced

Posted Wednesday 10th June

400 free training courses for small businesses and employees impacted by COVID-19

Globally successful online training company, GO1, delivers a ‘Netflix for training’ style platform for major firms and companies across the world to access training lessons pivotal to businesses. The Queensland Small Business Skills Hub will have courses across four topic areas. Read the Queensland government media release here to access the video in Dropbox (training portal and photos) or the link below to access the training. Queensland Tourism Industry Council is also offering tourism or hospitality businesses a micro-credential program for skills training.

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/support/small-business/online-training

Posted Monday 8th June 2020

The Queensland Tourism and Accommodation Industry COVID Safe Plan, a Queensland Government requirement for industry to operate in Stage 2 and Stage 3 under the Roadmap to easing Queensland’s restrictions, has now been approved by the Queensland Chief Health Officer.

Approved Industry COVID Safe Plans – https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/government-actions/approved-industry-covid-safe-plans

Important Business Survey (all industries)

Capricorn Enterprise requests all businesses to complete the short survey below (will take no more than 5 minutes).  It is critical that we collate this data and your information will be held in the strictest confidence.

Capricorn Enterprise needs quantitative and qualitative data to effectively represent your needs and  lobby all levels of government to support you with the most appropriate measures.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DZXNBLD

Join the Facebook **SUPPORT LOCAL, BUY LOCAL** group
In the face of COVID-19 and a challenging time in our economy, this group has been established as a platform to bring local businesses and residents together to share challenges, offer solutions and market opportunities to our community. We urge all business and individuals in the community to join this group so we can help each other. https://www.facebook.com/groups/2410372505941207/

Posted Monday 1st June 2020

From midday today Monday 1^st June 2020, Stage Two of the Roadmap) to easing restrictions will allow:

• Unlimited travel and overnight stays for Queenslanders across all of Queensland (no km limit).
• Recreational travel, camping and accommodation including caravan parks.
• Tourism experiences for 20 people – more if following the approved Industry COVID Safe Plan (Tourism and Events decision tree attached).
• Dining in or seated drinks in restaurants, cafes, pubs, registered or licensed clubs, RSL Clubs, hotels and casinos (no gaming) for up to 20 patrons per room or defined area.

Posted Friday 15th May 2020

The Central Highlands region is included in Outback Queensland as part of the Roadmap to ease restrictions.

• Dine-in pubs and cafes will be allowed up to 20 patrons at a time from tomorrow,16 May. Read more.

• The Visitor Information Centre in Emerald has re-opened today. It will operate weekdays 10:00am – 4:00pm and weekends 10:00am – 2:00pm. Read more.

• Fossicking areas at the Sapphire Gemfields are open from tomorrow, 16 May. Read more.

• Recreational facilities at Fairbairn Dam and Bedford Weir are open from tomorrow, 16 May. Read more. • Outback locals will be allowed recreational travel, including overnight accommodation, of a 500km radius within Outback areas. Read more.

Show holidays in the Central Highlands will remain despite there being no agricultural shows.

Central Highlands Regional Council’s public playgrounds, skate parks, outdoor gyms, libraries, transaction centres and outdoor sports facilities will re-open in line with eased restrictions.

More>

Posted Wednesay 13th May 2020

New JobKeeper eligibility requirements for 16 and 17 year olds — Employers need to provide the new JobKeeper Employee nomination notice to 16 and 17 year old employees as they will need to be independent or not in full-time study to continue to be eligible for JobKeeper for fortnights starting after 11 May.

Ombudsman releases new mental health resource for sole traders — The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman released a 13 minute webinar with sole trader and Beyond Blue ambassador Garry Mills discussing his experiences, practical tips and further resources to support other business owners.

Protecting public officials and workers (spitting, coughing and spitting) direction (No. 2) — This Queensland direction has been amended to include allied health professionals, corrective services and youth justice officers.

Delivering a win for local cafes and restaurants — Deliveroo removes commission fees for pick up orders and lower commission fees for Queensland restaurants that provide their own deliveries. The Small Business Taskforce continues to work with stakeholders to support hospitality businesses to start and grow their takeaway and delivery operations during COVID-19 restrictions.

Posted Tuesday 12th May 2020

The Non-Essential Business direction has been updated to require hostels, bed and breakfasts, backpackers, boarding houses, short term rentals and short term accommodation and caravan and camping parks to have a health management plan in place.

While not specified in the direction, it only applies to those properties with shared facilities such as shared bathrooms, kitchens and living/communal areas.  The health management plans are in response to the increase in seasonal workers staying at these properties.

From 12:01 am on Tuesday 5 May 2020, facilities must have a health management plan, unless the facility operates solely for permanent residents of the facility. A facility that is required to have a health management plan must operate in compliance with the health management plan.

Updated direction here: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/system-governance/legislation/cho-public-health-directions-under-expanded-public-health-act-powers/non-essential-business-closure-direction

Guideline for the development of Health Management Plan: https://www.health.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0033/959910/guideline-risk-mitigation-for-accommodation-transport.pdf

Health Management Plan template (Word), (PDF)

(The guidelines and template are available on the right hand side of the health direction page).

Posted Friday 8th May 2020

Following a National Cabinet meeting this morning, Friday 8th May 2020, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said there was a three-step plan to achieve a coronavirus-safe economy and society with states and territories to implement the changes as they see fit. The plan will be reviewed every three weeks.

Step one enables greater connection with friends and family, including:

• Gatherings up to 10 people and five guests in your own home;
• Children back in classrooms and in playgrounds in their communities;
• Recreational activities such as golf, lap swimming and boot camps;
• Retail, small cafes and restaurants reopening;
• Interstate recreational travel starting again; and
• An easing of restrictions for funerals with up to 30 attendees, outdoors and 10 at weddings.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk MP has revealed Queensland will move into step one of re-opening on Saturday, May 16 with dining in at restaurants, pubs and clubs with a maximum of ten people will also be allowed. People will also be allowed to travel up to 150 km for day trips.

From 11.59pm, Friday May 15, the following will be allowed:

• Gatherings of a maximum of 10 people together in a public space
• Dining in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, RSLs and cafes for a maximum of 10 patrons at one time as part of a gradual re-opening (no bars or gaming)
• Recreational travel of a radius of up to 150km from your home for day trips
• Some beauty therapies and nail salons for up to 10 people at one time
• Reopening of libraries. playground equipment, skate parks and  outdoor gyms (a maximum of 10 at one time)
• Wedding guests increased to 10 people and funeral attendance  increased to 20 (30 outdoors)
• Open homes and auctions with a maximum of 10 people at one time;
• Re-opening public pools and lagoons (eg South Bank, Cairns, Airlie Beach) with a maximum of 10 people at a time or greater numbers with an approved plan

For Outback Queensland, where there have been no COVID cases, two special concessions have been made:

• Dining in at pubs and cafes will be up to 20 for locals only, reflecting the important role these venues play in connecting small outback communities; and
• Recreational travel of a radius of up to 500 kilometres reflecting the long distances in the Outback.

Stage Two, effective 11.59pm, Friday June 12 would provide for:

• Gatherings at homes with a maximum of 20 visitors
• Dining-in at restaurants, pubs, clubs, cafes and RSLs for up to 20 patrons at a time and an option for more with an approved COVID-safe plan
• Holiday travel within your region

What is a COVID SAFE business?
Queensland businesses are currently required to take action to manage COVID-19 in the workplace and should have a plan in place to demonstrate this. As this is an existing measure linked to current legislation we recommend that this plan – or a summary of it- is what should be displayed as evidence that a business is COVID SAFE.
https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/coronavirus/workplace-risk-management-b/_recache

• Draft COVID safe checklist for Beauty Therapists and Nail Salons
• Draft COVID safe checklist for Restaurants and Cafes etc.

For the industries that have been deemed as higher risk by the CHO (dining, beauty and nail salons) must complete a mandatory checklist before opening. This checklist would form part of their COVID plan and they should display this checklist as evidence that they are COVID SAFE. Industries are also encouraged to create industry health plans to drive best practice in managing COVID for their industry.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk MP Facebook Roadmap to easing Queensland’s restrictions

Queensland Government media release

Boating and Fishing

Following the update to the  Home Confinement, Movement and Gathering Direction which came into effect from midnight Friday 1 May 2020, recreational activities such as boating and fishing can occur, providing they:

• stay within 50 kilometres of their home
• practice social distancing (people are encouraged to be mindful of high congestion areas such as boat ramps and refuelling points)
• are only joined by people they live with, or one other person. 

Fishing and charter boats are now allowed to operate with 2 passengers.

Posted Thursday 7th May 2020

Easing of restrictions

The Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk has advised that from Sunday 10 May some restrictions will be eased to allow up to five people from one household to visit another household. Queensland government media release.

Jobkeeper payments exempt from Payroll Tax

JobKeeper Payments will be exempt from Payroll Tax. Queensland government media release

The Safe Work Australia website has also been updated to be a single source of information and includes guidance about physical distancing, personal protective equipment, worksite cleaning, risk assessment and emergency plans for 23 specific industries.

Dams and recreation areas

From 2 May 2020, all Seqwater and Sunwater dams and recreation areas will re-open to the public for day use. Visit seqwater.com.au

Boaties can take their boat out for recreation, as well as exercising, fishing, travelling for work, getting groceries or providing assistance or care to immediate family members, provided they stay within 50kms of their home:

Boaties can take their boat out for recreation, as well as exercising, fishing, travelling for work, getting groceries or providing assistance or care to immediate family members, provided they stay within 50kms of their home:

• Social distancing rules always apply – special attention must be paid at congestion areas like boat ramps and refuelling points 
• Boaties should be on their boat alone, or with no more than one other person; or with family who ordinarily live in the same household.

• Social distancing rules always apply – special attention must be paid at congestion areas like boat ramps and refuelling points 
• Boaties should be on their boat alone, or with no more than one other person; or with family who ordinarily live in the same household.

Posted Wednesday 29th April 2020

Parks and forests updates: COVID-19

Some National Parks and State Forest sites will reopen from 11.59pm on Friday 1 May. This will allow Queenslanders whose homes are within 50km to have a picnic with their household, or for single households to have a picnic with one other person, or go for a walk. Read on for the list of sites which will be reopening Saturday 2nd May 2020 – https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/covid-19/

Queenslanders should check Park Alerts later this week before they travel for up-to-date information about closures.

Queensland’s annual harvest season can go ahead safely and effectively during COVID-19

Queensland Government Media Release:

Any seasonal worker coming to Queensland would need a border pass and details of:

• where they had been for the previous two weeks
• written confirmation of a job in Queensland
• and where they planned to reside.

If they have come from a declared COVID-19 hotspot, they must also self-quarantine for 14 days at their own or employer’s expense before starting their employment.

The Government will also:

• promote the importance of complying with health obligations
• insist on mandatory health management plans
• strengthen compliance
• and ensure local solutions for local circumstances are developed.

Small museums / Not for profits: grant programs

Posted Tuesday 28th April 2020

Young’s buses bolstered by Qld COVID-19 support

Capricorn Coast buses will continue to operate essential services with the State Government announcing additional support as part of a $54.5 million essential transport coronavirus package.

Seqwater and Sunwater dams to reopen

The State Government today announced that all Seqwater and Sunwater dams and recreation areas will re-open to the public for day use from Saturday, May 2, following a relaxation in guidelines from the Chief Health Officer. Media Release

Funding lifeline for Australia’s zoos and aquariums

Federal Government Media Release: Australia’s zoos and aquariums will receive a much-needed funding lifeline, with the Federal Government today unveiling a $94.6 million support package to help them get through the COVID-19 crisis.

This funding will assist exhibiting zoos and aquariums with the fixed operational costs associated with the caring of their animals, while also helping to ensure Australian zoos and aquariums can remain viable and ready to welcome visitors when restrictions are eased. 

Eligible exhibiting zoos and aquariums will have access to a grant that contributes towards up to six months of its animal welfare operating costs. This includes animal feed, enclosure, health and other specialised care expenses, and utilities directly related to the housing and caring for animals.

In addition to this support to help with operational costs, zoos and aquariums who meet the criteria will be able to apply for the JobKeeper program to assist with staffing costs.

For more information please see the Fact Sheet.

Waiver of vehicle registration cancellation and re-registration requirements

Individuals and businesses are cancelling their vehicle registration due to the financial impacts of COVID-19. Registration cancellations are expected to be particularly prominent within the passenger transport, vehicle hire, and heavy vehicle sectors. It is anticipated that many of these vehicles will be re-registered following the COVID-19 period. As a result, TMR has made changes to assist individuals and businesses with this process.

Specifically:

• The registration cancellation fee will be waived.
• If requested by the customer, the vehicle’s number plate will be customised for free enabling the customer to retain the plate and re-attach it to the vehicle upon re-registration.
• The requirement to surrender the number plate as part of the cancellation process will be waived.
• The new number plate fee will be waived on re-registration.
• The vehicle can be re-registered without a safety certificate or Certificate of Inspection (COI) if:
  • the vehicle’s previous COI was (as at the time of re-registration) within the last 12 months, or within the last 24 months for farm vehicles; and
  • the vehicle is being registered to the same registered operator as immediately prior to the cancellation; and
  • the vehicle has had no change in vehicle particulars (for example, VIN, engine number, make, model, colour).

These amendments will be in effect from 25 April 2020 and will be in place until six months after the COVID-19 period ends.

The Queensland Government is also freezing heavy vehicle registration fees for 2020-21.

Posted Monday 27th April 2020

Queensland Government Media Release: From 11.59pm Friday, May 1, Queenslanders will be able to leave their homes for recreation and the distance they can travel has been extended.

For example, Queenslanders will be able to enjoy some relief from stay-at-home rules and:

• Go for a drive;
• Ride a motorbike, jetski or boat for pleasure;
• Have a picnic; 
• Visit a national park; and
• Shop for non-essential items

But there are three conditions that apply linked to the above:

• Social distancing and hygiene must be maintained
• You have to stay within 50km of home and
• Outings are limited to members of the same household or an individual and one friend

Q & A factsheet

Posted Thursday 23rd April 2020

TAFE Queensland and CQ Uni offer free online courses — Free online skill sets and micro-credentialing courses are being offer by TAFE Queensland and CQ University. Courses are in areas including in food service, community care, health support, customer engagement, digital literacy and cyber security. Find out more through the Jobs Finder Queensland online portal.

$150 million relief and assistance package from NBN Co — includes $50 million for internet service providers to provide discounted access for small and medium businesses.

Posted Wednesday 22nd April 2020

Following the flattening of the curve, low rates of COVID-19 related hospitalisation and new data on stocks of PPE, category 2 and equivalent elective surgeries and procedures can recommence across the public and private hospital sectors from 27 April 2020. Procedures include:

• IVF
• Screening programs (cancer and other diseases)
• Post cancer reconstruction procedures (such as breast reconstruction)
• Procedures for children under 18 years of age.
• Joint replacements (incl knees, hips, shoulders)
• Cataracts and eye procedures
• Endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures

The National Cabinet has also reconfirmed the principles announced on 18 March 2020 regarding visits to aged care facilities. In line with these principles, visits should be limited to a short duration, a maximum of two visitors at one time per day, and conducted in line with social distancing practices. This is designed to limit the spread of COVID-19 in residential aged care facilities.

Posted Monday 20th April 2020

Updated fact sheets with additional information about requirements for visa holders to meet public health requirements (agriculture measures) as well as information about visa holders ability to access superannuation are now available.

This information has been published on the COVID-19 website https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au/frequently-asked-questions

Posted Friday 17th April 2020

Queensland Health has established a separate process to respond directly to questions and clarifications, which can be found online at:  https://www.health.qld.gov.au/system-governance/legislation/cho-public-health-directions-under-expanded-public-health-act-powers

On the right hand side of the landing page is information on how to ask a specific question about how the directives apply in particular circumstances.  While exact timeframes are not published, we understand the response time to questions and clarifications is reasonable.

Posted Tuesday 14th April 2020

The Fair Work Commission has made changes (9 April 2020) to 99 Modern Awards to provide an estimated 4.4 million employees with access to unpaid pandemic leave and provide them with the ability to take annual leave at half pay. The variation operates from 8 April until 30 June 2020. Read more https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/documents/resources/covid-19-information/email-2020-04-09-modern-award-updates-flexibility-covid-19.pdf

Modern awards list – https://www.fwc.gov.au/awards-and-agreements/awards/modern-awards/modern-awards-list

Posted Thursday 9th April 2020

Exporters are advised to keep abreast of the situation.

To help, Austrade has developed a COVID-19 information and insights page which is updated daily. 

Information about the recently announced International Air Freight Mechanism and extra funding for EMDG can be found here.

Posted Tuesday 7th April 2020

ACCC releases guidelines on cancellations and refunds for small business

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (‘ACCC’) has issued guidance to assist small businesses to understand their rights and obligations when issuing refunds in response to the coronavirus under the Australian Consumer Law.

The guide outlines small business rights and obligations relating to issues such as cancelled functions and events, pricing of goods and services, and charging subscription and membership fees when the business is not operating.

Small business can contact the ACCC via their online form.

Department of Innovation and Tourism Industry Update

• New Coronavirus (COVID-19) Business Assistance Finder tool
• Info on the Backing Business Investment incentive
• Registered charities access to JobKeeper COVID-19 wage subsidy
• #MakingItForQLD campaign – a call for Queensland manufacturers to re-purpose themselves to support Queensland during the COVID-19 crisis

Click here for more details. 

Posted Friday 3rd April 2020

Advice from Tourism Queensland

We all have a role to play in uniting against COVID-19, and if you are encouraging people to holiday at your business or in Queensland for purposes not permitted by the public health direction, you must cease immediately. Unfortunately, this does mean cancelling any future bookings while the home confinement direction is in place. This public health direction is outlined here and is currently in place until 19 May 2020 and may be extended further. 

In relation to hostels, bed and breakfasts, backpackers and boarding houses, these:

• May continue to operate for permanent and temporary residents traveling for a permitted purpose under the home confinement direction, and workers of the facility, with social distancing observed.
• If you are a backpacker and a temporary resident at a hostel, you are subject to home confinement and should only leave the premises for the permitted purposes.
• Limited to 2 people in common areas such as lounge rooms and shared facilities, with no more than one person per 4 square metres.
• Limited to 2 people in outdoor areas, that is part of the facility, or near the facility, with social distancing observed.

If the person does not comply with the public health directions, penalties will apply: $13,345 for individuals and $66,672.50 for corporations. It is possible the enforcement officer can issue on the spot tickets of $1,334.50 or $6,672.50 for corporations.

INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO BACKPACKERS, WORKING HOLIDAY MAKERS AND THOSE ON A VISA:

Where can I stay?

In relation to hostels, bed and breakfasts, backpackers and boarding houses, these:

• May continue to operate for permanent and temporary residents traveling for a permitted purpose under the home confinement direction, and workers of the facility, with social distancing observed.
• If you are a backpacker and a temporary resident at a hostel, you are subject to home confinement and should only leave the premises for the permitted purposes.
• Limited to 2 people in common areas such as lounge rooms and shared facilities, with no more than one person per 4 square metres.
• Limited to 2 people in outdoor areas, that is part of the facility, or near the facility, with social distancing observed.

If you do not comply with the public health directions, penalties will apply: $13,345 for individuals and $66,672.50 for corporations. It is possible the enforcement officer can issue on the spot tickets of $1,334.50 or $6,672.50 for corporations.

How to apply for visa extension

If you’re in Australia on a visa, you must apply for a new visa before your current visa expires. You may be​​​ eligible to be granted a bridging visa that will keep you lawful until a decision is made on your visa application. See what you need to do to stay longer.

Some services relating to the visa application process​ may be impacted by COVID-19.

Looking for harvest work

If you are already in Queensland, you should secure employment before you move into a new area. If you’re looking for harvest work, it’s really important that you don’t just show up to a farm. A better way is to register your availability at Harvest Trail – https://jobsearch.gov.au/harvest. You can also phone the National Harvest Labour Information Service on 1800 062 332.

If you are not currently in Queensland, and plan to work here, you will need to secure employment before you cross the border. Before you can enter Queensland, you need to apply for an entry pass at https://www.qld.gov.au/border-pass. If you do not have an entry pass, you will not be allowed to cross the border into Queensland.

Job Hub to highlight job opportunities

The federal government has launched a Jobs Hub (www.dese.gov.au/covid-19/jobs-hub) to highlight businesses and organisations with multiple jobs on offer.

Employers who are hiring and want support to connect with potential candidates can also contact the Department of Education, Skills and Employment at workforce@dese.gov.au to be connected directly with businesses reducing their workforces; and the employment services network to source suitable candidates.

If you are looking for work, the Jobs Hub allows prospective employees to search by employers with multiple job opportunities, by location and Australian Government jobs. When searching by location, our region is included in Fitzroy. Applicants will then need to further refine their search by towns and industry type.

Coronavirus and Australian workplace laws

Employees and employers are encouraged to work together to find the most beneficial and workable solutions that suit their individual workplaces and circumstances. Click here for advice on arranging flexible work, using paid leave, using unpaid leave, standing down employees and more.

Businesses and people affected by the coronavirus outbreak may also be eligible for government financial support. See Government information about coronavirus for links for further information.

• Proposed new pandemic leave
• Fair Work Commission statement outlining its intention to update 103 awards during the coronavirus pandemic.
• Award flexibility during coronavirus
• Pay and leave during coronavirus
• Alternative work arrangements during coronavirus

Posted Thursday 2nd April 2020

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked childcare centres to remain open for everyone to use. Centres have been asked to prioritise the children of essential workers and vulnerable children. Parents who need to send their children to child care will receive FREE care. https://www.dese.gov.au/news/coronavirus-covid-19

Posted Tuesday 31st March 2020

The third Federal Government stimulus package in response to COVID-19 provides significant incentives to employers and additional support for Australians to buffer the economic impacts.

The $1500 JobKeeper payment subsidy to businesses will keep more Australians in jobs with eligible businesses receiving $1500 per fortnight per eligible employee that is retained. For further information click here – https://www.business.gov.au/risk-management/emergency-management/coronavirus-information-and-support-for-business/jobkeeper-payment

• Fact Sheet on the program
• Fact Sheet for Employers
• Fact Sheet for Employees

In addition, over the next six months the Federal Government is temporarily expanding access to income support payments and establishing a Coronavirus Supplement of $550 per fortnight.

JobSeeker Payment is subject to a partner income test, and today the Government is temporarily relaxing the partner income test to ensure that an eligible person can receive the JobSeeker Payment, and associated Coronavirus Supplement, providing their partner earns less than $3,068 per fortnight, around $79,762 per annum. The personal income test for individuals on JobSeeker Payment will still apply.

More assistance will also be given to millions of Australians with a $1.1 billion package with boosts mental health services, domestic violence support, Medicare assistance for people at home and emergency food relief.

• $669M – Medicare-subsidised telehealth services
• $150M – domestic, family and sexual violence support
• $74M – mental health and well being support www.headtohealth.gov.au
• $200M – support for charities and community organisations which provide emergency and food relief.

Posted Monday 30th March 2020

There are a number of new and updated CHO directives including:

• NEW Home confinement Direction
• NEW School and Early Childhood Service Exclusion Direction
• NEW Self-quarantine for persons arriving in Queensland from overseas Direction
• UPDATED Mass Gatherings Direction (No 2)
• UPDATED Non-essential business, activity and undertaking Closure Direction (No.4)

Queensland Rail Travel Services

As of Monday 30 March 2020, the following Queensland Rail Travel services will operate:

• Spirit of Queensland – 3 return services per week (Brisbane to Cairns)
• Rockhampton Tilt Train – 4 return services per week (Brisbane to Rockhampton)
• Bundaberg Tilt Train – 2 return services per week (Brisbane to Bundaberg)

Posted Friday 27th March 2020

New Announcement: The latest Commonwealth Government measures were announced this afternoon by the Prime Minister. It includes some new provisions for all international arrivals, including Australians returning,  who will have to be quarantined in (hotel) accommodation rather than home. State and Territory governments are working with regional tourism organisations to source accommodation.
Information for hotels and hotel staff

Industry update: The Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning/COVID-19 has sent an important industry message, view online here – https://bit.ly/3dxtkck, outlining support for industry.

Posted Thursday 26th March 2020

Our TOP 5 tips for Facebook marketing during COVID-19

It has become very apparent that there will be no escaping the impacts of Coronavirus in our community, making Facebook now, more than ever, an essential marketing tool for all businesses to interact with their customers. With consumers staying at home and trying to ride out this storm, our small businesses are being forced to be innovative about the way they operate and communicate. Here are 5 tips on how to handle your Facebook communications during this difficult time – https://capricornenterprise.com.au/2020/03/our-top-5-tips-for-facebook-marketing-during-covid-19/

Tourism Australia newsletter

There are a number of great online resources, courses and webinars available for tourism operators at the moment. Some examples are below:

• Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) – COVID-19 Industry information & support
• STR webinar on 27 March – COVID-19 impact on Pacific region hotel performance
• Tourism E School – COVID-19 Immediate Response Action Plan for Destinations
• Yarra Ranges Tourism – Crisis Management in the time of COVID-19
• Business Australia – Business Guide to Coronavirus
• Facebook – Clarity amid the COVID-19 outbreak: Communication guides for businesses and business grants

Live streaming and virtual programming: Although many venues are currently closed, many are live streaming or providing virtual tours. Some great examples include:

• National Gallery of Victoria – On the new NGV Channel, find a growing haul of virtual content to explore. Right now, you can join a free, curator-led tour of Collecting Comme  and the NGV’s Indigenous art collection Marking Time. You can also digitally explore around KAWS: Companionship In The Age Of Loneliness and from Saturday 28 March ‘Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines‘ will also be open online.  
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Queensland – Tune in for heart-warming live streams of cute and cuddly koalas alongside other Australian native animals such as dingoes with Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Queensland.
• Zoos Victoria – Zoos Victoria has set up live streams at some Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo enclosures, meaning you can now visit their adorable animals anytime online.
• Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Tasmania – is live streaming ‘Tim’ between 10am and 4.30pm AEDT daily. A former tattoo-parlour manager from Zurich, Tim Steiner has an elaborate tattoo on his back that was designed by a famous artist and sold to a German art collector. As part of the deal, Tim spends his days sitting in galleries so people can admire this work of art. Since 2011, Tim has sat at Mona for over 3,500 hours. 

Business support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

The Australian Government National Indigenous Australians Agency has provided a comprehensive document to support the community during the COVID-19 situation. It includes information for employers to assist them to retain or employ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well as information to support people and their communities, including details on the Community Recovery Hotline 1800 173 349 for those who are self isolating. The document also provides links to mental health services and a variety of other useful information.

Rockhampton Regional Council relief package

Rockhampton Regional Council voted yesterday to immediately roll out a relief package worth up to $1.3 million to help support businesses and community groups in the Rockhampton Region.

The package includes: 

• No additional interest on Outstanding Rates until further notice
• Lease fee refunds for eligible sporting and community groups
• Existing business licences extended until 30 June 2021
• Rent relief for commercial tenants
• Cash contribution of $20,000 each for two local animal welfare agencies – Capricorn Animal Aid and Central Queensland Animal Society
• All Environmentally Relevant Authorities extended for a further 12 months
• In-kind support for the business community from Advance Rockhampton

Posted Wednesday 25th March 2020

Queensland National Parks, state forests and recreation areas

In response to #COVID-19 (coronavirus) ALL camping areas in Queensland national parks, state forests and recreation areas are closed until further notice.

Campers who are currently on site will be notified today to prepare to leave within the next 24 to 48 hours.

Four-wheel drive trails, mountain bike trails, walking tracks and trails, bushwalks and national park coastal walks, remain open.

People who are visiting these areas and taking part in recreation activities in national parks and other areas, should continue to follow the Queensland Health advice about not travelling outside of their local area and for public gatherings and social distancing.

You are encouraged to check Park Alerts https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/park-alerts/ for the latest information.

Building and construction open for business

Master Builders Queensland have advised its members that building and construction remains an essential service and is open for business. Builders and tradies are exempt from the Queensland border shutdown measures when travelling for work. For this and other details, please read the Member Alert https://www.vision6.com.au/v/17545/1794486578/email.html?k=sKOG6SnTZ6YLIFcd8usxNOZpSLO3iorBplCJx3rnIcA

Posted Tuesday 24th March 2020

On Sunday 22 March, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a further $66b stimulus package to help stem the economic impacts of Novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Part of this package addressed the financial assistance available for eligible small and medium businesses (SMEs) as well as charities. 

Today, the Queensland Government also unveiled a $3b rescue package for businesses and households which includes an immediate refund to SME’s for the February and March payroll tax. We will continue to communicate further details as they become available.

In the interim, outlined below is a quick snapshot of the assistance available for SMEs with relevant hyperlinks to fact sheets and websites to help you keep up to date. 

Federal Government funding assistance:

• Boosting Cash Flow for Employers
• Temporary relief for financially distressed businesses
• Increasing the instant asset write-off
• Backing business investment – (refer to page 3)
• Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme
• Supporting apprentices and trainees – (refer to page 5)
• Support for Sole Traders

Queensland Government funding assistance:

• Manufacturer’s supply matching is well underway to assist Queensland manufacturers and businesses who are finding it difficult to obtain vital materials and supplies.  
• Queensland COVID-19 jobs support loansYou may be eligible for a loan to retain employees and maintain your operations. Register your interest through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority or phone 1800 623 946.
• Small Business Financial Counselling Service  Any small business impacted by COVID19 can now contact the Small Business Financial Counselling Service in the following areas:

Southern Queensland –     phone (07) 4622 5500

North Queensland –          phone (07) 4652 5669
A map of Queensland showing the division of Small Business Financial Counselling Service providers can be found here: rfcs-qld-map.pdf

Further information on the Queensland Governments Immediate Industry Recovery Package is available at www.qld.gov.au/industryrecovery or by contacting 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

Posted Monday 23rd March 2020

Further assistance available to business

The Australian Government has announced a second stage of measures to keep businesses in business and to keep workers in jobs.

Factsheets include: Economic Response (overall view), Income Support for Individuals, Payments to Support Households, Early Access to Superannuation, Providing Support for Retirees, Cash Flow Assistance for Business and more.

These measures are focused on getting businesses and their workers through to the other side of this crisis and include:

• A wage subsidy for small and medium businesses to save jobs; and
• A guarantee on loans to small and medium businesses so they can keep in business.

Support to keep Australians in jobs: Businesses will be given a cash payment of up to $100,000 for the period March 2020 to September 2020. That payment will be worth 100% of the tax those small and medium businesses, with a turnover less than $50 million, are withholding from their employees salary and wages.

The payment will be tax free. It will now also be available to eligible charities or other not-for-profit entities.

Support for business – https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/businesses

Supporting small business with loans: The new Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme is designed to support small and medium business with a turnover less than $50 million.

This measure complements the $8 billion worth of measures the banks announced this week to defer repayments for 6 months for small and medium businesses battling the impacts of coronavirus.

The Coronavirus SME Guarantee Scheme will be able to be accessed by eligible banks and non-bank lenders.

Supporting the flow of credit – https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/business-investment

Supporting Individuals and Households: The Australian Government is providing financial assistance to Australians. This assistance includes income support payments, payments to support households and temporary early releases of superannuation. https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/households

Posted Friday 20th March 2020

Buy local, shop local, stay local

Michelle Landry MP, Member for Capricornia, with Mary Carroll, Capricorn Enterprise CEO, discuss the importance of spending money locally. A lot of businesses will be adversely affected by the virus now and in the coming months. They really need our help to keep the lights on and keep people in jobs. Please consider local, hardworking businesses in Capricornia for any of your purchases. They need our help. Watch the video here.

Business stimulus

Last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Federal Coalition Government announced a comprehensive stimulus package which is designed to help Australians stay employed and keep small and medium businesses in operation. You can read the Prime Minister’s full statement here.

The Federal Government recognises the need to support businesses during this difficult and uncertain period. That’s why they’ve made the following assistance available:

• Increasing the Instant Asset Write-Off
  • The instant asset write-off threshold has been increased from $30,000 to $150,000 and expanded access to include businesses with aggregated annual turnover of less than $500 million (up from $50 million). This applies from 12 March 2020 until 30 June 2020, for new or second‑hand assets first used or installed ready for use in this timeframe. For more information, click here.
• Backing Business Investment
  • A time limited 15 month investment incentive to support business investment and economic growth over the short term, by accelerating depreciation deductions. This applies to eligible assets acquired from 12 March 2020 and first used or installed by 30 June 2021. Businesses with a turnover of less than $500 million will be able to deduct 50 per cent of the cost of an eligible asset on installation, with existing depreciation rules applying to the balance of the asset cost. For more information, click here.
• Boosting cash flow for employers
  • Provides $25,000 back to small and medium-sized businesses, with a minimum payment of $2,000 for eligible businesses. This payment will provide cash flow support to businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million that employ staff. The payment will be tax free. For more information, click here.
• Supporting apprentices and trainees
  • If you employ an apprentice or trainee you may be eligible for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of their wage paid from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2020. You can register for the subsidy from early April 2020. For more information, click here.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and the State Labor Government also recently announced:

• Jobs Support Loans
  • A new $500 million loan facility, interest free for the first 12 months, to support Queensland businesses impacted by COVID-19 retain employees and maintain their operations. The $500 million concessional loan facility will comprise low interest loans of up to $250,000 for carry on finance with an initial 12-month interest free period for businesses to retain staff. The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is responsible for the administration of these concessional loans. For more information or to apply, click here.
• Deferring payroll tax
  • If your business has been affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19), you can defer lodging and paying payroll tax returns until 31 July 2020. For more information, click here.
• Market diversification and resilience grants
  • The Queensland Government are providing assistance for businesses impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak through the Market Diversification and Resilience Grants (MDRG) program. The MDRG program will benefit Queensland agriculture, food and fishing exporters and their critical supply chain partners, as well as industry organisations working with exporters to build resilience by diversifying into new markets (international or interstate).
  • Equipment purchase grants of up to $7,500 (excluding GST) are available to support new equipment purchases up to a maximum cost of $10,000 (excluding GST). Project grants of up to $50,000 (excluding GST) are also available to support project activities.
  • For more information, click here.

Coronavirus Border Closures

• Australia is closing its borders to all non-citizens and non-residents.  
• The entry ban starts from 9pm AEST Friday 20 March 2020  with exemptions only for Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family, including spouses, legal guardians and dependants.  
• Our number one priority is to slow the spread of coronavirus to save lives.  
• Our government has taken this unprecedented step because around 80 per cent of coronavirus cases in Australia are people who caught the virus overseas before entering Australia, or people who have had direct contact with someone who has returned from overseas.   
• Our previous travel and entry restrictions have already seen daily travel to Australia by non-citizens reduce by around a third compared to this time last year.

Level 4 – Do Not Travel

• Our advice to all Australians – regardless of your destination, age or health – is do not travel overseas, at all.  
• This is our highest travel advice setting – Level 4 of 4 and is the first time we have done so in history.  
• The decision reflects the gravity of the international situation arising from the COVID-19 outbreak, the risks to health and the high likelihood of major travel disruptions.  
• Australians who are overseas who wish to return to Australia, should 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.

Key contacts

• If you’re unsure about what to do, call the Coronavirus Health Information Line (operating 24/7) on 1800 020 080.
• For travel advice visit https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/

Advice for drivers and passengers using public transport Factsheet: People who have travelled from a country or region that is at high or moderate risk for COVID-19 should monitor their health closely. If you develop symptoms including a fever and cough you should isolate yourself immediately and urgently seek medical attention. Go to www.health.gov.au/covid19-travellers for the list of at-risk countries.

Small Business Financial Counselling Service
The Rural Financial Counselling Service traditionally provides free financial advice to primary producers who are suffering financial hardship and have no alternative sources of impartial financial information. This service has been expanded to support any Small Business impacted by COVID19 and is funded by grants from government to local organisations that employ financial counsellors.
 
Any Small Business impacted by COVID19 can now contact the Small Business Financial Counselling Service in the following areas:

• Southern Queensland – phone (07) 4622 5500
• North Queensland – phone  (07) 4652 5669.

A map of Queensland showing the division of Small Business Financial Counselling Service providers can be found here: rfcs-qld-map.pdf

Posted Thursday 19th March 2020

QantasLink are reducing their weekly Brisbane to Rockhampton flights from 41 to 37 only. There will be a daily coastal flight (return) from Rockhampton to Mackay to Townsville. Media release

The Queensland Government has announced the Immediate Industry Recovery Package to assist business and industry to implement resilience and recovery strategies to mitigate impacts of COVID-19.

This package currently includes support for businesses such as:

• payroll tax support
• targeted support for hardest hit industries (tourism, hospitality, fisheries and exporters)
• a $500 million loan facility to support businesses to retain employees and maintain operations.

This information, as well as potential further support measures, will be updated regularly by the Queensland Government so I encourage you to monitor it: https://www.qld.gov.au/about/industry-recovery/business-and-industry-support

The Australian Government has also announced an economic response including: business investment support, assistance with cash flow for employers, household stimulus payments and targeted assistance for the most severely affected regions. To access the Australian Government’s support visit: https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus

The Reserve Bank (RBA) announced a cash rat cut of 0.25% today, bringing the cash rate to 0.25%. RBA statement

Facebook announces $100 million program for small businesses impacted by coronavirus https://www.cnbc.com/2020/03/17/facebook-announces-program-for-small-businesses-impacted-by-covid-19.html

LAUNCH OF NATIONAL CAMPAIGN

https://www.health.gov.au/news/launch-of-the-coronavirus-covid-19-campaign

INFORMATION AND SUPPORT FOR BUSINESS

https://www.business.gov.au/risk-management/emergency-management/coronavirus-information-and-support-for-business

CANCELLATION OF EVENT ADVICE https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/consumer-rights-guarantees/covid-19-coronavirus-information-for-consumers

If you are a sole trader without employees or if you have employees follow the link to find out what support is available to you – https://www.business.gov.au/risk-management/emergency-management/coronavirus-information-and-support-for-business/what-support-is-available-to-your-business

Posted Wednesday 18th March 2020

An update from Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry MP, https://capricornenterprise.com.au/2020/03/federal-member-for-capricornia-michelle-landry-mp-march-18th-update-on-coronavirus-measures/

The Factsheet on gathering in public has been updated – FACTSHEET

Business Australia has collated an Employer Guide to the Coronavirus – https://www.businessaustralia.com/how-we-help/be-a-better-employer/getting-legal-advice/employer-guide-to-coronavirus/latest-news

Posted Tuesday 17th March 2020

State Funding Support

Today the State Government announced a new $500 million loan facility, interest free for the first 12 months, to support businesses to keep Queenslanders in work, as well as extend the coronavirus payroll tax deferral to ALL businesses across the state. 

This follows the Federal government’s announcement of a $17.6 Billion stimulus package last week (scroll down this email thread), with a second stimulus package to come.

Information on the state concessional loans will be available at www.qrida.qld.gov.au from the end of this week.

Information on state payroll tax deferral can be found at www.osr.qld.gov.au

Cancelled Local/Regional Events (to date):

In following the national guidelines widely circulated, the following events have been cancelled in the period to June 2020:

• Festival of the Wind – Emu Park
• Keppel Sands Krabtastic
• Livingstone Shire Council – All public programmes and events cancelled from March to May
• Beef to Beach
• Beef Australia – Beef 21 Club events
• Colour Me Capricorn
• 7 Rocky River Run
• All RRC public programs in the libraries, Bauhinia and Schotia Place, Heritage Village Markets, Pilbeam Theatre (Mumma Mia)
• Rockhampton Art Gallery public programs
• Rockhampton Agricultural Show
• Woman’s Wellness Expo
• Rockhampton Best in Business Awards
• Rockhampton ANZAC day
• Golden Mount Festival
• Archer Park School Holidays Program
• Capricorn Enterprise Business Breakfast and Business Lunch with Gene Tunny, postponed, date to be determined
• Laing O’Rourke ASMTI Industry briefings cancelled but EOI sought by email
• Great Western Hotel bull cancelling bull riding on Wednesday and Friday nights until further notice but still open for business Wednesday to Sunday, including takeaway and delivery.
• Mount Morgan Rail Museum and Visitor Information Centre (from Monday 23rd March 2020)

Buy Local, Support Local

In this most challenging time, it is important for us to support each other as best we can whilst exercising social distancing and self-care.  Buy local and please do not abandon our local businesses. 

• Continue Dining at your local café/restaurant (exercise social distancing by sitting at every second table) OR buy takeaway meals and coffee (using your keep cup of course)
• Book your own rainforest log cabin, island cabin, city or coastal unit OR Buy now and Stay Later (to help stimulate cash flow).

Our destination is sprinkled with loads of open aired, tranquil spaces for you and your family to enjoy – from Carnarvon Gorge to the Capricorn Coast, from the Central Highlands to the Keppel Islands – our businesses are hurting and their employees need our support.

Posted Monday 16th March 2020

Following the announcement from the Federal Government Assistance for businesses and with the escalation of Covid-19 precautionary measures over the weekend, we know businesses are suffering with significant cancellations of hotel rooms (corporate and leisure, domestic and international) and tours which also affects restaurants, cafes and retail outlets. No industry is immune to the Covid-19 issue, with many corporate companies banning travel in the immediate future (reflected in hotel cancellations locally), other large companies ordering their employees to remotely work from home (i.e. Telstra) and interruptions to the supply chain across all sectors.

We need you to please complete this very quick survey from Business Queensland to assist the government in understanding the FINANCIAL impacts to your business so far:

https://www.business.qld.gov.au/starting-business/advice-support/support/novel-coronavirus  – remember, this information can help your business/our area in any future recovery assistance.

“Cash is King” in business, so Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll has been lobbying via State and Federal channels on a number of teleconferences today with my regional colleagues, that cash injections directly back to businesses via the ATO would be the most effective in the immediate future.

The CCIQ have collated this helpful guide for businesses, which is updated as the situation evolves:

https://www.cciq.com.au/business-voice/news/coronavirus/

Information for hotels and hotel staff:

https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-hotels-and-hotel-staff-coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-hotels-and-hotel-staff_0.pdf

COVID-19 Isolation guidance:

https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-isolation-guidance_2.pdf.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) is providing daily global situation reports:

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/situation-reports

https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200315-sitrep-55-covid-19.pdf?sfvrsn=33daa5cb_6

The most current information in relation to COVID-19 is available via the Queensland Government website:

https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19

Master Builders Updated information:

Building Supply Chain:

https://www.mbqld.com.au/news-and-publications/news/coronavirus-and-the-building-industry

Workplace relations.

https://www.mbqld.com.au/news-and-publications/news/coronavirus-common-workplace-relations-faqs

Cancellations – we advise that you implement your own cancellation policies, with many of you offering a full refund, or a credit eligible for twelve months. You need to do what is right for your customers and your future relationship with those customers.

Capricorn Enterprise is here to support you– we are only a phone call or email away. If you have any specific enquiries across any industry, please email me, as chances are, we do have information at hand or can refer you to someone who does.

Posted Friday 13th March 2020

IMPORTANT FEDERAL GOVT. ASSISTANCE FOR BUSINESSES

The Federal Government has announced a $17.6 billion coronavirus stimulus package – ($1 billion for tourism) – Please click on the link to find out more.

The Prime Minister has unveiled plans for a $17.6 billion stimulus package to aid Australia’s economic recovery in the wake of the coronavirus, $1 billion of which has been set aside to support those regions and communities that have been disproportionately affected by the economic impacts of the Coronavirus, including those heavily reliant on industries such as tourism, agriculture and education. This will include: 

• the waiver of fees and charges for tourism businesses that operate in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and the waiver of entry fees for Commonwealth National Parks; 
• additional assistance to help businesses identify alternative export markets or supply chains; and 
• targeted measures to further promote domestic tourism.   

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) is also providing administrative relief for some tax obligations for people affected by the Coronavirus outbreak, on a case-by-case basis. The ATO will set up a temporary shop front in Cairns within the next few weeks with dedicated staff specialising in assisting small business. In addition, it will consider ways to enhance its presence in other significantly affected regions, making it easier for people to apply for relief. The ATO is considering further temporary shop fronts and face-to-face options. 

$2.4 billion of the total package has been earmarked to deal with the health impacts of the coronavirus outbreak including creating a new Medicare item for telehealth services so people can be treated at home. There will also be 100 fever clinics set up around Australia to test those who think they may be sick. 

Below is an extract from the $17.6 billion coronavirus stimulus Package:

Cash flow assistance for businesses

• $6.7 billion to Boost Cash Flow for Employers by up to $25,000 with a minimum payment of $2,000 for eligible small and medium-sized businesses. The payment will provide cash flow support to businesses with a turnover of less than $50 million that employ staff, between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2020. The payment will be tax free. This measure will benefit around 690,000 businesses employing around 7.8 million people. Businesses will receive payments of 50 per cent of their Business Activity Statements or Instalment Activity Statement from 28 April with refunds to then be paid within 14 days.
• $1.3 billion to support small businesses to support the jobs of around 120,000 apprentices and trainees. Eligible employers can apply for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of the apprentice’s or trainee’s wage for up to 9 months from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2020. Where a small business is not able to retain an apprentice, the subsidy will be available to a new employer that employs that apprentice.

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