06 Dec 2020 | 09:36 AM UTC
Australia: South Australia eases some COVID-19 restrictions as of Dec. 6 /update 12
Authorities in South Australia State, Australia ease some COVID-19 business restrictions as of Dec. 6. International flights to resume.
Event
South Australia has eased restrictions on hospitality businesses statewide, as of Dec. 6, amid reduced coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity. Officials have reduced the density cap at these establishments to one person per two square meters (21 square feet). Customers must remain seated while consuming food and beverages inside but can stand in outdoor areas. The government continues to restrict home visits to a maximum of 10 people. Authorities permit funerals, weddings, and private functions at licensed venues with up to 150 people. Religious services can take place with up to 100 people. Indoor gyms, recreation centers, and personal services are operating with capacity limited to one person per four square meters (42 square feet). Personal service workers must continue to wear facemasks. Businesses must also conduct contact tracing, with few exceptions. The government has provided companies with a quick response (QR) code for electronic contact tracing and is encouraging patrons to use the mySA GOV mobile application to check-in to establishments.
Domestic Border Controls
South Australia allows passengers from all Australian states and territories to enter without quarantine. However, all travelers must still complete a Cross Border Travel Registration before arrival.
Quarantine Requirements
Officials in South Australia have lifted a ban on inbound international flights and expect service to resume after Dec. 7. Authorities require all international arrivals to undergo a 14-day quarantine and receive COVID-19 tests within 24 hours of arrival and on the twelfth day of quarantine. Travelers from New Zealand are exempt from the requirement. South Australia charges all required travelers, including Australian citizens and permanent residents, for quarantine, payable after completion. Quarantine fees are AUD 3,000 (USD 2,150) for the first adult and AUD 1,000 (USD 715) for each additional adult or AUD 500 (USD 358) for children, except those under three years old. People who purchased tickets before 1200 ACST July 13 are exempt from payment.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by government health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider deferring nonessential travel to South Australia until restrictions ease. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Plan for transport disruptions and delivery delays at designated hotspot areas. 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.
