05 Jan 2021 | 05:50 AM UTC
Australia: Australian Capital Territory to ban entry for nonresidents with recent travel history in Greater Sydney through Jan. 12 /update 7
Australian Capital Territory to ban entry for nonresidents from Greater Sydney through Jan. 12. Other COVID-19 measures remain in effect.
Event
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has enhanced restrictions on travelers with a recent travel history to parts of New South Wales through at least Jan. 12 to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Authorities will ban travelers who recently visited Greater Sydney, including the Central Coast and Wollongong local government areas. ACT residents are exempt from the ban but must complete an online declaration at least 24 hours before returning and self-quarantine for 14 days.
Local Restrictions
Officials are maintaining some coronavirus disease (COVID-19) restrictions under Stage 3 of the ACT's recovery roadmap. Public gatherings can occur with up to 500 people, provided venues limit capacity to one person per four square meters (43 square feet) indoors and one person per two square meters (21 square feet) outdoors. Venues must also complete a COVID-19 safe plan and notify health authorities before holding events. Larger events require a government exemption. Indoor cultural attractions, such as galleries and museums, can allow one person per two square meters (21 square feet) per distinct area. Cinemas and stadiums can operate at 65-percent capacity.
Quarantine Requirements
All travelers entering Australia must quarantine in government-designated facilities in the city of their arrival for 14 days. Quarantine fees in the ACT are AUD 3,000 (USD 2,308) for the first adult, AUD 1,000 (USD 770) for each additional adult in a group, and AUD 500 (USD 385) for every child over the age of two.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by government health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Plan for transport disruptions and delivery delays, especially if traveling from Victoria. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.
