Questions about quarantine

What is quarantine?

Quarantine is when people who are well but have been in contact with someone with COVID-19 have to stay away from others to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Quarantine means staying in your home or government arranged accommodation or at another quarantine address for 14 days until the date that is stated on your quarantine direction (if issued). You must avoid contact with other people, including receiving visitors and not leave. The quarantine period is 14 days from when you may have been in contact with the person with COVID-19. This is because you may be in the incubation period (the time between getting the virus and showing symptoms).

Who has to quarantine?

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, anyone arriving in Queensland must quarantine if, in the last 14 days, they:

• have been in a declared COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days or since the hotspot was declared (whichever is shorter)
• have been to an interstate exposure venue, at the relevant time and have been identified as a close contact
• have been identified as a close contact by other means
• are a secondary contact that resides in the same household as an identified close contact as specified in Schedule 1 of the Management of Secondary Contacts Direction.
• have been overseas in the last 14 days (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a safe travel zone country)

When someone is directed to quarantine, they may be issued with a quarantine direction under the Public Health Act 2005. This is a legal notice. A secondary contact will be required to quarantine in accordance with a quarantine direction issued to the member of their household who is the identified close contact.

Who does not have to quarantine?

If you are entering Queensland directly from a safe travel zone country on a quarantine-free flight, you do not need to quarantine or complete a Queensland International Arrivals Registration if you meet all of these conditions:

• you have been tested for COVID-19 in a clinical setting within 72 hours prior to the time you departed a safe travel zone country on a quarantine-free flight and your test returned a negative result
• you are fully vaccinated unless you are under 12 years of age, or are unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccination because of a recognised medical contraindication.
• you haven’t been to a COVID-19 hotspot in the 14 days prior to departing the safe travel zone country

If you cannot be vaccinated due to a recognised medical contraindication, you’ll need to provide a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner as evidence, stating the medical contraindication.

All passengers on a quarantine-free flight are still required to complete the Australia Travel Declaration at least 72 hours before the time of departure.

Who can direct a person to go into quarantine?

Under the Public Health Act 2005:

• the Chief Health Officer can release a Public Health Direction stating that specific groups of people need to go into quarantine
• an emergency officer can direct a person to go into quarantine.

You can be directed to quarantine either verbally or in writing, including as a text message, email or letter.  When you get given a written quarantine direction, you must complete quarantine, even if you have not been told verbally by an emergency officer.

Even if you don’t receive a written quarantine direction but are requested to quarantine by an emergency officer (public health), either verbally or via SMS you are still required to quarantine.

What is a quarantine direction?

A quarantine direction is a legal notice issued under the Public Health Act 2005 that may be given to a person who is directed to quarantine. If the close contact is a minor, the quarantine direction will be issued to the parent, guardian or responsible adult of the minor. The quarantine direction includes:

• person’s name, date of birth, contact details and the address they advised where they will be quarantining (i.e. residential address or alternative address)
• date that they are required to quarantine until
• if applicable, children in the person’s care who are to also comply with the quarantine direction
• penalty for not complying with the quarantine direction
• link to further quarantine information.

A secondary contact will be required to quarantine in accordance with a quarantine direction issued to the member of their household who is the identified close contact.

Which agencies may contact me during my quarantine?

While in quarantine, Queensland Health and the Queensland Government COVID team will call and SMS you, to check that you are adhering to your quarantine requirements and to check on your health and wellbeing. These calls may come from a private number, so we encourage you to answer it as soon as possible.

Be alert about COVID-19 themed hoax SMS and emails, for example, notifying people they are a close contact to a confirmed COVID-19 case. These messages usually include a link to a non-government website or may ask to provide personal information, including banking details. You will never be asked for your banking details by a Queensland Government agency via an SMS. If you are unsure whether an SMS or email you received is genuine, you can call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) to check.

Do I have to quarantine when I arrive in Queensland from overseas?

If you are entering Queensland from a safe travel zone country on a quarantine free flight, you do not need to quarantine or complete a Queensland International Arrivals Registration if you meet all of these conditions:

• you have been tested for COVID-19 in a clinical setting within 72 hours prior to the time you departed a safe travel zone country on a quarantine-free flight and your test returned a negative result
• you are fully vaccinated unless you are under 12 years of age, or are unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccination because of a recognised medical contraindication.
• you haven’t been to a COVID-19 hotspot in the 14 days prior to departing the safe travel zone country.

If you cannot be vaccinated due to a recognised medical contraindication, you’ll need to provide a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner as evidence, stating the medical contraindication.

Anyone else entering Queensland from overseas, excluding people transiting through Queensland before boarding another international flight, must go into quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days in the city of their arrival at their own expense.

All passengers on a quarantine-free flight are required to complete the Australia Travel Declaration at least 72 hours before the time of departure.

Do I need to complete a Queensland International Arrivals Registration if I am travelling from overseas?

If you have been overseas in the last 14 days prior to arriving in Queensland, you must complete a Queensland International Arrivals Registration except when:

• you entered Queensland on a quarantine free flight from a safe travel zone country
• you are an international passenger arriving Queensland on a domestic flight
• you are maritime crew who are not required to quarantine in Queensland under the Protocol for maritime crew members joining or signing off a vessel in Queensland.

I have already quarantined for 14 days in another state or territory, do I have to quarantine again in Queensland and pay the fee?

If you have quarantined for 14 days in the state or territory you arrived in, you will not need to quarantine on your arrival in Queensland.

If the location you are quarantining in is a COVID-19 hotspot, you will not need to quarantine again when you arrive in Queensland – subject to the following conditions:

• When you arrive in Queensland, you will need to provide written proof to an emergency officer that you have completed your mandatory hotel quarantine in another state, that you have had a COVID-19 test in quarantine and received a negative result, and that you travelled on a direct route in private transport or as arranged by a government authority from the hotel to the airport.
• During this travel time you must have worn a mask and you must not have left the confines of the airport.

Can Queensland residents quarantine in their own homes?

For international arrivals, quarantine must be in government arranged accommodation. Quarantine outside of government arranged accommodation will only be available in very limited circumstances.

What are the screening questions which may be asked on arrival to Queensland?

An emergency officer may require any person arriving in Queensland from overseas, including on a quarantine free flight, to answer questions or provide evidence about:

• whether the person has symptoms consistent with COVID-19
• whether they have been exposed to COVID-19 in the past 14 days
• whether the person has been undertaking managed isolation or quarantine in a safe travel zone country in the past 14 days
• their name
• their date of birth
• their phone number while in Australia
• their intended address while in Australia
• their email address
• their flight number
• their flight seat number
• the places the person has been in the last 14 days before arriving in Queensland
• vaccination status or a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner stating the medical contraindication that prevents the person from being vaccinated
• results of a COVID-19 test taken in a clinical setting within 72 hours of their departure from a safe zone country.

Where is government arranged accommodation available in Queensland?

The Queensland Government has arranged for quarantine accommodation in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns.

How do I get from the airport to the accommodation to quarantine?

#airport-to-government-quarantine

The Queensland Government has arranged for quarantine accommodation in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Cairns.

When you arrive, transport from the airport to government arranged accommodation will be provided. You cannot take a taxi, rideshare or public transport to the premises.

What do I do with my pets while I’m in quarantine?

You will need to arrange for the care of animals prior to your arrival in Queensland.

Can I quarantine at a cheaper hotel, at home or with family or friends?

No. Quarantine for people arriving from overseas (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a Queensland safe travel zone country) or from a declared COVID-19 hotspot must be in government arranged accommodation unless they are otherwise directed by an public health emergency officer. You cannot arrange to quarantine at home or other accommodation. This is due to the health risk that cannot be properly managed at other residences or accommodation providers. In limited circumstances, you may be directed to quarantine at another place by an emergency officer.

Can I have people visit me while in quarantine?

No. You are not allowed to have anyone enter your room, unless they are:

• needed for an emergency situation
• staying in the premises for quarantine reasons
• required to enter by an emergency officer to conduct a COVID-19 test
• directed to enter by an emergency officer for an emergency and their contact details are recorded.

What emergencies will people be allowed to enter my quarantine room?

Emergency officers will allow people to enter your room for an emergency situation where it is not possible for you to be transported to hospital. Other emergencies could include emergency maintenance such as a broken pipe.

Do I have to quarantine in Queensland if it’s not my final destination in Australia?

Yes. If Queensland is not your final destination in Australia you must quarantine here before continuing your journey unless you are an unaccompanied minor or you are travelling on a quarantine free flight from safe travel zone country.

I’m the parent/guardian of a child arriving into Queensland on their own, do they have to quarantine before I see them?

Unaccompanied minors must quarantine for 14 days in a nominated premises and they must stay with a parent, guardian or other responsible adult if they are coming from overseas (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a safe travel zone country) or a hotspot. They cannot quarantine at a residence. Unaccompanied minors who arrive in Queensland from overseas can be accompanied from the airport by a parent, guardian or other responsible adult to a nominated premises to quarantine.

An unaccompanied minor who arrives in Queensland from overseas can also travel from Queensland to another state or territory to quarantine at a place of residence with a parent, guardian or other responsible adult, if it is allowed by the other state or territory.

A responsible adult is someone who has been given written consent by the child’s parent or legal guardian to complete quarantine in government arranged accommodation with them.

What happens if I have a long layover between my connecting international flights?

If you are arriving into Queensland from overseas and have a long layover before another international flight to leave Australia, there are different steps depending on how long your layover is:

• less than 8 hours - you will have to stay at the airport and will not have to complete the Queensland International Arrivals Registration
• 8 to 72 hours - you will be directed by an emergency public health officer to quarantine in government arranged accommodation. You will be required to pay for the number of nights you stay at the hotel if you are at the hotel for more than 24 hours.

Questions about opening your door in government arranged quarantine

Can I open the door of my quarantine room?

You can only open the door to your room for a permitted purpose if everyone inside is wearing a surgical face mask. You must wait one minute after staff have knocked on your door before opening the door. For example:

• collect food, laundry or other items left at your door
• place laundry, rubbish or other items directly outside your door in a sealed bag for collection
• in an emergency situation
• for safety reasons (to avoid injury or illness, or to escape a risk of harm)
• for essential medical care, including a COVID-19 test
• as otherwise required or permitted under a direction given to you by a relevant authority.

What rules must I follow to go on my balcony?

#balcony-rules

Please note, balconies are not available in all rooms.

If you have a balcony and wish to use it, you must practise social distancing, by staying 1.5 metres away from people on other balconies.

You must not:

• pass food or other items out of your balcony
• climb out of your balcony
• allow anyone to enter your balcony
• accept any other items on to your balcony
• physically interact with neighbouring guests across balconies.

Who doesn't have to wear a face mask in quarantine?

There are some exceptions to wearing a face mask when opening the door to your quarantine room. These exceptions include:

• children under 12
• anyone who has a medical condition or disability that may be made worse by wearing a mask – for example, a person who has breathing difficulties, a serious skin condition on their face, a mental health condition or psychological impacts from experienced trauma.

What sort of face mask can I wear?

You can wear a single use surgical mask with a minimum level 1 barrier protection (Australian Standard) that covers your nose and mouth.

You cannot wear a scarf, bandana or face shield.

Where can I find information on how to correctly wear a face mask?

Find out how to use, wear and dispose of a face mask.

Questions about leaving government arranged quarantine

What if I decide I no longer want to remain in Queensland after starting my quarantine?

Arriving from Overseas

If you arrive in Queensland from overseas you will have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days, at your own expense. You cannot leave quarantine to travel interstate or overseas unless you have an exemption from the Chief Health Officer.

If you come to Queensland from a safe travel zone country and you are directed to quarantine, you will only be able to leave quarantine early if allowed by an emergency officer or if you are granted an exemption by the Chief Health Officer.

You will have to quarantine if you haven’t travelled on a quarantine free flight or from a country that is not a Queensland safe travel zone country. If you have been in a place outside of Australia in the 14 days immediately before you enter Queensland, you will have to follow the requirements under the Quarantine for International Arrivals Direction.

Arriving from a hotspot

If you arrive in Queensland and you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days or since the start date identified for the hotspot (whichever is shorter), and have not been overseas in the last 14 days, you will need to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days.

If you decide you do not wish remain in Queensland after starting your quarantine, you can leave quarantine prior to completing the full 14 days to immediately leave Queensland without stopping, provided you:

• wear a mask and travel by an endorsed transport provider
• have received a negative COVID-19 test result while in quarantine.

Close contacts and interstate exposure venues

If you are identified as a close contact or you have been to an interstate exposure venue at the relevant time you will be contacted by a public health emergency officer and be required to get tested and quarantine as per their instructions. You cannot leave quarantine early unless you have an exemption from the Chief Health Officer due to the increased public health risk.

If we can’t find the people who had been in close contact with a person who tested positive, we will issue an alert on our website and through media and social media. This lists the dates, times and places where the sick person was will be listed on our website. We ask the public who may have had contact with that person at one of those times or places to contact us. If you have travelled interstate you should keep up to date with the latest public health alerts of as listed on the other relevant state or territory government’s website. If you have been in an exposure site you should call 134 COVID ( 134 268 ), you will be required to get tested immediately and follow the public health advice of the relevant jurisdiction.

If I am currently in mandatory quarantine due to entering from a country that has since become a safe travel zone country for Queensland, can I leave quarantine?

If you entered Queensland from a location that has since been declared a Queensland safe travel zone country, you can leave quarantine.

You must complete the following before you can leave quarantine:

• declare in writing that you haven’t been in a country that is not a safe travel zone country in the last 14 days
• provide your contact details and an address where you’ll be residing in Queensland
• have a negative COVID-19 test while in quarantine
• declare you have not been to any of the listed interstate exposure venues and commit to monitor the list of interstate exposure venues daily (at least once every 24 hours) from the time you complete a Queensland Entry Pass and for 14 days after arriving into Queensland

Can I leave the accommodation during my 14-day quarantine period?

No. You must not leave the nominated premises for 14 days, except:

• in an emergency situation
• for safety reasons (to avoid injury or illness, or to escape a risk of harm)
• for essential medical care at a hospital, if allowed by the authority
• to depart on a connecting international flight
• as otherwise required or permitted under a direction given to you by a public health emergency officer.

If I need to leave quarantine for an essential reason, how do I get to my destination?

If leaving quarantine for medical care at a hospital, you must travel in an ambulance.

If leaving quarantine for any other allowed purpose, you must travel in an emergency services vehicle or transport arranged by a government authority.If you are leaving quarantine for any other allowed purpose, you must travel in an ambulance or by a government authority endorsed transport provider with a transport plan.

Questions about government arranged quarantine service inclusions

How will my accommodation be organised?

When you arrive in Queensland from overseas (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a Queensland safe travel zone country) or from a declared hotspot or if you are identified as a close contact needing to quarantine in government arranged accommodation, you will be given a mandatory 14 days quarantine notice and required to go straight to your government arranged accommodation.

Your accommodation and daily meals will be managed by Queensland Government.

Following the quarantine period, you will be invoiced for a contribution to the cost.

How can I get essential items when I arrive, e.g. nappies or medication?

You will receive an information pack at your accommodation listing the local services available. You can order takeaway like UberEats, and supermarket deliveries or arrange for friends and family to drop off food and other items. Please check with the hotel concierge on the preferred drop off method.

There will be people at the accommodation to support you. You can also call the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

Do I have to pay for the hotel food if I provide my own?

Yes. Daily meals are included in the quarantine fee and there is no option to exclude them. All accommodation providers cater for a wide variety of dietary requirements. Please tell hotel staff if you have dietary requirements when you arrive.

Please note there will be no cooking facilities available in your room.

How will my food be delivered?

Food will be delivered to your room by ‘contactless delivery’. Hotel staff will explain how this will work.

You can only open the door to your room if everyone inside is wearing a surgical face mask. You must wait one minute after staff have knocked on your door before opening the door.

Can I order food and drinks online?

Yes, you can buy food and drinks online to be delivered to the hotel and staff will bring it to your room. You will be charged for hotel quarantine meals even if you don’t eat them.

Check the hotel rules about buying and drinking alcohol. Hotels practice responsible service of alcohol and deliveries are recorded. You are allowed the equivalent of six 330ml cans of beers (6-9 standard drinks), or one bottle of wine (7-8 standard drinks) per day.

Any excess alcohol will be stored on your behalf until you have completed your quarantine period.

What if I have dietary requirements?

Let hotel reception know if you have any dietary requirements when you check in.

I am travelling with a friend, can we share a bed and the cost of a single room?

If you have been travelling with a friend and this request can be accommodated, then the cost of the room provided can be shared for the full quarantine period. However, each person will be charged for the meals provided.

Can I pay to upgrade my hotel room?/ Can I request a room with a balcony?/ Can I choose my own hotel?/ Can I change my room?/ Can I choose which government hotel I go into? / If we are a family with children, can we get an apartment?

No. All rooms are pre-allocated. All attempts have been made by the Queensland Government to source suitable accommodation for quarantine purposes.

Room changes are not allowed unless medically required or in exceptional circumstances. There may be additional costs for room changes. Call hotel reception to request a Room change form.

What is included in the quarantine fee, e.g. Wi-Fi, gym, pool, minibar, Foxtel, laundry etc.?

While in mandatory quarantine you will not be able to use any shared facilities at the hotel (pool, gym etc.) due to the requirement to remain in your room. There will be a minibar fridge in your room, but there will be no minibar menu items available for the duration of your stay.

On arrival at your government arranged accommodation full details will be provided as to Wi-Fi access, laundry facilities etc.

Questions about health and wellbeing during government arranged quarantine

Am I allowed to leave my room for fresh air or exercise?

We know how important it is to look after mental wellbeing, but we also know how important it is to keep Queenslanders safe and well.

Queensland Health does not support the provision of fresh air breaks during quarantine, as they pose a risk to the public health and safety of all persons involved.

Fresh air breaks are not allowed due to the potential spread of COVID-19.

What should I do if I am sick?

If you arrive in Queensland with any COVID-19 symptoms tell a health official immediately.

If you feel sick in quarantine tell the health support team or hotel staff immediately and stay isolated in your room.

Call emergency services on 000 if you are very unwell.

How do I get my medication while in quarantine?

If you have a current script, you can take a photo and send it to a local pharmacy. You will have to discuss payment and delivery of the medication with the hotel. Call hotel reception for local pharmacies.

If you don’t have a current script, you can book a telehealth consult with a Doctor. They can organise a prescription to be sent to a local pharmacy and medication delivered to the hotel. Call hotel reception for local Doctors.

How do I access First Nations medical services while in quarantine?

If you want to book a First Nations medical service, you first need a telehealth consult with a local Doctor. The Venue Health Manager can help you access Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hospital liaison services.

Can I use my nebuliser or CPAP machine while in quarantine?

Using a nebuliser or CPAP machine is not permitted while in quarantine. Nebulisers and CPAP machines have an increased risk of spreading viruses such as COVID-19 through aerosolisation. This means small particles containing the virus can flow through the air and spread more widely.

If you require the use of a nebuliser or CPAP or any other respiratory device, call reception for the health team to discuss other ways to manage your health conditions.

I have a medical condition/live with a disability which means I am unable to live independently, can I quarantine with my carer?

A person unable to live independently without ongoing or regular support, including disability support, due to significant health or disability needs, will be accommodated in a special needs hotel or may have their carer quarantine with them.

How can I look after my mental wellbeing in quarantine?

Looking after your mental wellbeing is even more important during times of uncertainty. Read our blog for some hints and tips or check out Queensland Health's Your Mental Wellbeing website.

We understand that measures put in place during the COVID-19 response, including mandatory quarantine, can be and have been difficult for some Queenslanders. There are people to support you during your quarantine. Queensland Health, as well as various government and community agencies, conduct regular wellbeing phone check-ups for people in mandatory quarantine.

If you are in mandatory quarantine and have any health concerns, please contact 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for 24/7 health advice. You can also call the Community Recovery Hotline on 1800 173 349.

How can I stay connected with my friends and family during my quarantine?

Social distancing does not mean you cannot be social, keep the conversations going by:

• chatting on the phone
• having a video call
• writing an email.

To find out more about how to stay in touch while being physically apart, read our blog.

How can I keep physically active?

Getting your body moving can improve how you feel physically and mentally. We suggest trying some of the:

• workout routines ^‘Healthier. Happier.’ have put together
• suggestions in our ‘Looking after yourself while you’re self-quarantining’ blog post.

Other questions about government arranged quarantine

Can I smoke while in quarantine?

You cannot smoke in your room. It is important you talk to the health support team if you smoke or are dependent on any other substance. The health support team can help you get the support you need during your stay.

You can call Quitline (13 78 48) between 8am and 9pm, 7 days a week to receive free nicotine replacement therapy patches that can be sent to you within one business day. The Quitline also provides free and confidential advice on how to quit smoking.

What do I do in an evacuation?

In an evacuation, follow normal hotel procedures. If safe to do so, wear a face mask and keep 1.5 metres from others. You will be given an extra mask to use in case of an evacuation. If you use this face mask, ask for a new spare one.

What happens when I complete my 14 days of quarantine?

Your hotel’s health team will talk to you about leaving quarantine. You will have to:

• Arrange your selected departure time with reception and complete the hotel’s standard check-out process
• Wear your mask until you have departed the premises and on your transport home. If there are requirements for mask wearing in place at the time of your departure, you must follow these
• Give details that you can be contacted on for two weeks after leaving quarantine
• Follow any other instructions as provided by the onsite health and QPS team.

You cannot stay in government arranged accommodation after your quarantine has finished. You must organise and pay for your own travel and accommodation after quarantine. Call hotel reception if you need help with this.

I’m a consular employee, do I need to quarantine?

Yes. Consular employees who arrive in Queensland from overseas (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a Queensland safe travel zone country) must quarantine in a government arranged hotel or other government organised quarantine.

Questions about testing in government arranged quarantine

Why do I have to be tested for COVID-19?

In Australia, it is known that international travellers and people who have been in a hotspot are at a higher risk of having COVID-19.

You have to be tested so that if you are carrying the virus – even without showing symptoms – you do not pass it on. By getting tested you will help keep Queenslanders safe.

How often do I need to be tested?

You will be tested for COVID-19 on:

• arrival at your government arranged accommodation; and
• on day 5; and
• on day 12 or 13 of your quarantine, even if you have no symptoms.

Some children may only be tested on days 10 to 13. Call hotel reception to speak to the Venue Health Manager if you have any questions.

Will the test be carried out in my room? Do I need to leave quarantine to get tested?

If you are in government arranged accommodation, trained clinicians will visit you at the hotel to undertake COVID-19 testing.

How long will it take to receive my results?

Results are usually available within a couple of days after the test was taken. Your result will be provided before leaving quarantine.

If the result is positive, you will receive a call from a public health doctor or nurse who will tell you what to do next.

If the result is negative, you will be contacted by the public health clinical support staff responsible for your quarantine venue, this may be by phone or by SMS.

How will I receive my results?

If the result is positive, you will receive a call from a public health doctor or nurse who will tell you what to do next.

If the result is negative, you will be contacted by the public health clinical support staff for your quarantine venue, this may be by phone or by SMS.

Can I be released from quarantine earlier than the 14 day period if I return a negative result?

No. People in quarantine who get tested for COVID-19 and the result is negative still need to remain for the full 14 day quarantine period. This is because you may be in the incubation period (the time between getting the virus and showing symptoms).

You can only leave quarantine earlier if you are in quarantine due to coming from a place that used to be a hotspot and is no longer a hotspot.

What happens if I develop symptoms during quarantine?

If you have COVID-19 symptoms that are life threatening or urgent:

• Call Triple zero (000). Tell the operator that you are in quarantine.
• If possible, call hotel reception and tell them an ambulance is coming.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms that are not urgent:

• Call hotel reception and tell them you have COVID-19 symptoms. The hotel will tell the Venue Health Manager.
• The venue health team will contact you (during business hours) for an onsite COVID-19 test.
• Outside business hours you can call 134 COVID (134 268) to speak to someone about your health.

What happens if I test positive while in quarantine? Will I have to pay for a longer stay in government arranged accommodation?

If your test is positive, we will arrange to transfer you to a hospital to isolate until you have recovered.

Your isolation costs, for when you have tested positive to COVID-19, whether they be in hotel or hospital will be covered by the government if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

What happens if my test is negative?

If the result is negative, you will be contacted by the public health clinical support staff responsible for your quarantine accommodation, this may be by phone or by SMS.

People in quarantine who get tested for COVID-19 with a negative result still need to remain for the full 14 day quarantine period. This is because you may be in the incubation period (the time between getting the virus and showing symptoms).

You can only leave quarantine earlier if you are in quarantine because you have been in a hotspot and it is no longer a hotspot.

If I refuse to be tested, do I need to pay for the extra 14 days in government arranged accommodation?

Yes. By getting tested before leaving quarantine you are helping us stop the spread of COVID-19 and protecting Queenslanders from the virus. We respect your right to refuse, however, you will be required to quarantine for a further 14 days until there is greater certainty that you do not have the virus. You will need to pay for costs of an extended quarantine period.

What does the test involve?

For the COVID-19 test, secretions are collected from the back of your nose and throat using a swab. The test will be performed in your hotel room by a trained healthcare professional. They will ask you to stand in your doorway to sit or lie down comfortably, if you are unable to stand, tilt your head back and quickly insert a small swab with a soft tip into your mouth and into each nostril. You may experience brief discomfort, but the test will be over quickly.

How are children under the age of 12 tested?

Small children will need testing using a specialised swab, by a healthcare professional who has been trained to complete COVID-19 tests on children. Discuss your children’s testing with the health support team, when they contact you regarding your tests.

Do I need to have a test if I have no symptoms?

Yes. It is a requirement that all people entering quarantine in government arranged accommodation must be tested before leaving quarantine.

Getting tested before you leave quarantine will help us find as many cases as possible and limit the possibility of the cases entering our community. This will ensure we are doing everything we can to manage Queensland’s response to the pandemic.

Do I need to take another test if I tested negative for COVID-19 before travelling to Queensland?

Yes. Anyone who has travelled to Queensland from overseas (excluding travel on a quarantine free flight from a Queensland safe travel zone country) or a declared hotspot will be asked to take a COVID-19 test soon after entry to quarantine, on day 5 and on day 12 or 13 of their 14 days quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

Is it safe for people to come into my room and test me?

Yes. Testing clinicians will be wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and they may also ask you to wear the appropriate PPE while getting tested or when leaving your hotel room. It is important you do not have any other visitors other than those who are exempt under the Direction.

Questions about requirements after completing and leaving government arranged quarantine

What do I need to do to leave quarantine at the end of my 14 days in government arranged quarantine?

#what-to-do-leaving-hotel-quarantine

Testing during quarantine

You must have had a COVID-19 test each time requested by an emergency officer, including:

• as soon as you arrive in government arranged quarantine
• on day 5
• on day 12 or 13

You must receive a negative test each time you are tested.

If you refuse to be tested when requested, you will have to complete an additional 14 days quarantine in government arranged quarantine at your own expense.

What do I need to do after I leave government arranged quarantine?

#what-to-do-after-leaving-hotel-quarantine

Once you have completed your mandatory 14 day quarantine period, you have no further obligations and can complete the standard hotel check out procedure at your government-arranged accommodation.

However, if you experience symptoms consistent with COVID-19 after your quarantine has ended, you are strongly urged to get tested and isolate yourself from others until you receive a negative result.

If you are having difficulty finding a testing location, you can visit a Queensland fever clinic.

Questions about enforcement

Are there penalties if I don’t comply?

Yes. If you don’t comply you may be given an on-the-spot fine of $1,378 for individuals and $6,892 for corporations, a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,785 or 6 months' imprisonment.

Questions about maritime and air crew

What are the rules for maritime crew?

Maritime crew entering Queensland to join a vessel or sign off a vessel need to comply with the Protocol for Maritime Crew.

What are the rules for air crew?

All air crew arriving from overseas are required to follow quarantine requirements under the Quarantine and COVID-19 Testing for Air Crew Direction.

Questions about the Queensland International Arrivals Registration

Who has to complete a Queensland International Arrivals registration?

If you have been overseas in the last 14 days prior to arriving in Queensland, you must complete a Queensland International Arrivals Registration.

You don’t have to complete a registration if you arrived in Australia on a quarantine free flight from a Queensland safe travel zone country.

Children can be included on the registration of the parent, guardian or responsible adult they are travelling with.

International passengers can leave on another international flight that leaves from Queensland in line with the Australian Government Department of Health advice.

International passengers can transit through Queensland without quarantining or completing the Queensland International Arrivals Registration if you remain at the airport until your next international flight to leave Australia and your next flight is within 8 hours of your arrival in Queensland.

If you are an international transit passenger who has between 8 and 72 hours from your arrival in Queensland and your next international flight, you will be required to quarantine at government arranged accommodation until your next flight and complete the Queensland International Arrivals Registration.

What is the Queensland International Arrivals Registration?

The Queensland International Arrivals Registration requires you to answer the following questions:

• What is your name?
• What is your date of birth?
• What is your primary residential address in Australia?
• What is your phone number?
• What is your email address?
• When will you arrive in Queensland?

You will need to provide evidence of your identity if asked – this could include your Passport, Driver Licence or Medicare card.

You will also need to provide details of the parent, guardian or responsible adult who will quarantine with any unaccompanied minors.

Questions about endorsed transport providers

Endorsed transport providers

See more information on endorsed transport providers and for answer to commonly asked questions.

Questions about coming to Queensland for health care from a hotspot

What is essential health care?

#essential-health-care

You can enter Queensland by air for essential health care without an exemption. If you live in a hotspot outside of the border zone, you must apply for an exemption to be able to enter Queensland by road to receive essential health care.

If you are a New South Wales border zone resident who usually receives regular health care across the border, you can cross the border to receive health care anywhere in Queensland. You should let your health care practitioner know that you are entering from the border zone. Your health care practitioner may look at alternative ways for you to access the care you need, such as through Telehealth, or require additional precautions to be taken when you enter the health care facility.

Essential health care is any:

• Queensland Children’s Hospital appointment confirmed in writing by the hospital
• appointment at a Queensland Hospital and Health Service or associated outreach location, confirmed in writing by the service
• Specialist appointment at a licensed Queensland private health facility or ancillary clinic or service, confirmed in writing by the service or health practitioner
• appointment at an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health service confirmed in writing by the service
• appointment with a prescribed health practitioner at another premises, confirmed in writing by the practitioner.

Written confirmation of the need for essential health care in Queensland can be done using the form approved by the Chief Health Officer.

An appointment with a prescribed health practitioner may include an appointment with a registered NDIS provider as part of an NDIS plan. An appointment at an ancillary clinic or service may include an appointment at a rehabilitation service.

An appointment with a prescribed health practitioner means an appointment with a person registered to provide the following services:

• dental (including the profession of a dentist, dental therapist, dental hygienist, dental prosthetist and oral health therapist)
• medical
• medical radiation practice
• midwifery
• nursing
• occupational therapy
• optometry
• paramedicine
• pharmacy
• physiotherapy
• podiatry
• psychology
• services as a registered NDIS provider under an agreed NDIS plan.

If you don’t meet the above requirements you will not be able to enter Queensland unless you have been granted an individual exemption granted by the Chief Health Officer. These are only given in rare and exceptional circumstances

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Can I enter Queensland for emergency health care?

Emergency health care patients requiring emergency care and entering Queensland via ambulance, aeromedical retrieval or formal interstate hospital transfer will not be subject to border requirements.

I’m a border zone resident who usually receives regular health care at a hospital across the border, can I cross the border to receive this treatment?

Yes. If you are a New South Wales border zone resident who usually receives regular health care across the border, you can cross the border to receive health care anywhere in Queensland. You should let your health care practitioner know that you are entering from the border zone. Your health care practitioner may look at alternative ways for you to access the care you need, such as through Telehealth, or require additional precautions to be taken when you enter the health care facility.

If you need to stay overnight or longer to complete an essential purpose, you must comply with stay at home requirements until you leave Queensland. You can complete this stay at home requirements in temporary accommodation such as a Ronald McDonald House.

View the border zone map.

How do I prove that my health care cannot be obtained near my place of residence?/ What do I need to show at the border to prove that I have an essential health care appointment?

The hospital, service or health practitioner you are visiting will need to provide written evidence (electronic or printed) stating that you have to go to the facility to receive your healthcare. You will have to show this written evidence at the border.

They can use the form for entering Queensland to receive essential health care. Once completed the form should be provided to you or your support person.

The health practitioner or person in charge of a hospital or other health facility will take into account a number of considerations, including your medical history, treatment plan, availability and timeliness of your treatment. If possible, you should try and obtain your health care in your home state rather than coming to Queensland to receive health care.

Can I receive essential health care in a private hospital?

Yes, if the hospital has provided you with written evidence (electronic or printed) stating that you have to go to the facility to receive your healthcare you will be able to receive your essential health care at a private hospital.

They can use the form for entering Queensland to receive essential health care. Once completed the form should be provided to you or your support person.

You will have to show this written evidence at the border.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Do I need to quarantine if I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot outside the border zone to receive essential health care?/ Can I quarantine with a family or friend while I'm waiting for my appointment?/ Can I stay somewhere other than government quarantine?

Anyone coming to Queensland to receive essential health care from a hotspot outside of the border zone will need to quarantine. If you will be admitted into a hospital you will be able to complete your quarantine at the hospital. All the same rules of government arranged accommodation will apply.

If you are an outpatient, you will have to stay in government arranged accommodation if your treatment is for more than one day. As soon your treatment is completed you will need to leave Queensland straight away.

If you are accompanying someone receiving essential health care as a support person and staying for the duration of their treatment you will need to stay in government arranged accommodation, unless the hospital or other facility can accommodate you.

You can enter Queensland by air for essential health care without an exemption. If you live in a hotspot outside of the border zone, you must apply for an exemption to be able to enter Queensland by road to receive essential health care.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Do I need to quarantine if I have complex medical needs?

Anyone coming to Queensland to receive essential health care from a hotspot will need to quarantine.

If you are someone with complex medical needs, a person with a disability or parents of very young children, health staff at your accommodation can help you.

The Healthcare Support Service can also help you get the right healthcare, when and where you need it. If you want to apply for an exemption, speak with a healthcare support worker. To contact the Healthcare Support Service, phone 13 COVID (13 42 68 43) and press 4.

My child needs to receive essential health care that will take more than one day, what can I do?

If your child is receiving essential health care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital you will be able to complete your quarantine at the hospital. All of the same rules of government arranged accommodation will apply.

If your child is receiving essential health care at another hospital or your child is an outpatient of the Queensland Children’s hospital you and your family will need to stay in government arranged accommodation unless the hospital or facility can accommodate you. You can leave as soon as the treatment is over but you may stay longer if they wish.

If your child’s essential health care takes longer than 14 days you and your family will be able to leave government arranged accommodation once you have completed your 14 days quarantine and stay where you would normally stay, for example a Ronald McDonald House.

You will be able to leave government arranged accommodation to take your child to receive essential health care.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Do I have to quarantine if my essential health care treatment is only a day treatment or an appointment?

No, if you do not need to stay overnight for your treatment or appointments you do not have to quarantine. Instead you will have to travel directly to your appointment then leave Queensland immediately following your treatment/appointment by air. An Emergency Officer at the airport will provide you with information on how to commute from the airport to your appointment.

You can enter Queensland by air for essential health care without an exemption. If you live in a hotspot outside of the border zone, you must apply for an exemption to be able to enter Queensland by road to receive essential health care.

Your exemption will include details of where you will be required to complete your mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Will I be charged for quarantine if I am coming up for essential health care treatment?

If you are coming to Queensland for health care or surgery from a COVID-19 hotspot, you will need to quarantine at government arranged accommodation. You may be eligible for a fee waiver or for a subsidy under the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme.

Do I need to apply for an exemption to enter Queensland from a hotspot to receive essential health care?

No. You do not need to apply for an exemption to enter Queensland if you are entering to receive essential health care, or to provide support to a person receiving essential health care.

You will be required to complete 14 days mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation. You may be eligible for a fee waiver.

You can enter Queensland by air for essential health care without an exemption. If you live in a hotspot outside of the border zone, you must apply for an exemption to be able to enter Queensland by road to receive essential health care. Your exemption will include details of where you will complete your mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

What do I do if I’m told not to come to my health care appointment in Queensland?

If you are advised not to come to your health care appointment in Queensland, you should make an alternative appointment in your state.

Why can I no longer drive to Queensland from a hotspot to attend an essential health care appointment?

You can enter Queensland by air for essential health care without an exemption. If you live in a hotspot outside of the border zone, you must apply for an exemption to be able to enter Queensland by road to receive essential health care.

This is to ensure you receive details of where you will be required to complete your mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

People entering Queensland for emergency health care will still be able to enter by road.

Questions about face masks

When do I have to wear a face mask?/ Where do I have to wear a face mask

You are only required to wear a mask in some locations such as airports on domestic flights. You do not need to wear a mask if you:

• have not been in a locked down area since 4pm on 8 August 2021 or an impacted area at any time since 1am AEST 29 June; or
• do not reside in the same household as a person who has been in a locked down area at any time from 4pm on 8 August 2021 or an impacted areas at any time from 1am AEST 31 July 2021

You are not required to wear a mask if 14 days have passed since you or a member of your household was in an impacted areas or a locked down area.

We recommend everyone else in Queensland should keep a mask with them so that if you are in a situation where you may not be able to maintain physical distancing, you have some added protection.

Who doesn’t have to wear a face mask?

#exceptions

There are also some exceptions to wearing a face mask in airports in Queensland, on domestic flights and in vehicles transporting people to and from quarantine hotels.

These exceptions include:

• children under 12
• a person eating, drinking or taking medicine
• where visibility of the mouth is essential – for example, a person communicating to someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, a teacher or live broadcasting
• a person with a particular medical condition or disability that may be made worse by wearing a mask – for example, a person who has breathing difficulties, a serious skin condition on their face, a mental health condition or psychological impacts from experienced trauma
• a person undergoing medical treatment – for example, a person receiving first aid
• if a person is asked to remove a face mask for identity
• if wearing a mask creates a risk to a person’s health and safety
• in an emergency or when required by law – for example, if a customs officer requires a person to remove their mask for a cavity search
• in any circumstances where it is not safe to wear a face mask
• if you are an air crew member or an airport worker who is not interacting directly with passengers.

If you remove your face mask for any reason, you must put it back on as soon as practicable.

Do I have to wear a mask if I work in the building and construction industry?

If you work in the building and construction industry, masks are mandatory and must be worn at all times, unless:

• it is unsafe to do so
• you are eating or drinking
• you are alone in your car (or with only members of your household)
• you are alone or can physically distance (from non-household members)
• you are smoking, but you must maintain 1.5 metre distance from other people while smoking.

This applies both inside and outside of a building, and includes residential construction such as renovations, repairs or maintenance.

If you cannot maintain physical distance from others on the worksite, you must wear your mask.

Do I have to provide a medical certificate to prove I can't wear a mask due to my medical condition?

You do not need a medical certificate to prove you have a lawful reason for not wearing a face mask.

Find out more information about COVID-19 and human rights.

Questions about face masks at airports and on flights

Do I have to wear a mask if I’m driving a vehicle with no passengers?

No. You do not need to wear a mask if you are driving a vehicle without passengers.

Do I have to wear a face mask if I am not interacting directly with passengers?

Air crew and airport workers who do not interact directly with passengers do not need to wear a mask. If you are in the airport where passengers are present, you must wear a face mask. If you are at an airport in a locked down area, you must wear a mask at all times unless an exception applies

What type of mask can I wear in an airport or on a plane? Will it be provided to me?

You must obtain your own face mask. The best face mask is a single-use surgical mask – you can purchase these at pharmacies. If you are unable to get a surgical mask, any cloth mask with at least 3 layers is permitted.

Find out how to use, wear and dispose of a face mask.

How can I wear a face mask if I have a hearing aid or wear garments that cover my head or face?

If you wear a hearing aid we recommend considering wearing a mask that ties around your head, rather than over the ears to ensure the ties do not get tangled in your hearing aid.

There are a range of face masks available that can be worn with traditional and religious garments. These include face masks that are tied around the head, rather than looped over the ears. If you wear a face covering, like a veil or scarf, you should wear your face mask beneath this covering your nose and mouth.

Find out how to use, wear and dispose of a face mask.

How do I stop my face mask fogging up my glasses?

Try one of these tips to help prevent your face mask fogging your glasses:

• make sure your face mask is fitted and pinched on your nose if possible
• put your glasses on after your mask
• wash your glasses with detergent and water to create a film to prevent fogging
• use micropore tape (available at pharmacies) to tape the mask along the bridge of your nose and cheeks, then put your glasses on top
• put a folded tissue across the bridge of your nose, then put your mask on with your glasses on top.

Find out how to use, wear and dispose of a face mask.

How do I wear a mask correctly if I have a big beard?

Ensure the mask covers your nose and mouth, regardless of any facial hair. For non-medical face masks, you do not have to achieve a seal with the mask against the skin of your face.

There are different shapes and sizes of fabric non-medical masks available, some of which may be a more comfortable option if you have facial hair.

Who are air crew and airport workers?

• a pilot or crew member providing essential safety or maintenance functions or cabin crew member actively servicing a commercial domestic flight
• an off-shift pilot or crew member providing essential safety or maintenance functions or cabin crew member travelling to reposition to commence duty in Queensland or another State or Territory
• an aeromedical services crew member providing patient transport or emergency medical care to a patient
• an off-shift aeromedical services crew member who is travelling as a passenger on an aircraft to reposition to commence duty in Queensland or another State of Territory.

• an engineer or other technical staff
• a cleaner
• a baggage handler
• a person involved in the delivery or removal of food, goods or other things in connection with an aircraft
• an employee of an airline other than air crew
• a person providing law enforcement or border security services.

Can I remove my face mask to smoke or use an e-cigarette?

Yes, subject to existing restrictions on smoking in public places in Queensland.

While there isn’t enough evidence to be certain that people who smoke are more likely to be infected by COVID-19, the act of smoking means that fingers are in contact with your lips which increases the possibility of transmission of virus from hand to mouth.

Find out more about smoking and COVID-19.

How will wearing face masks be enforced?

Airlines can stop someone from boarding a domestic flight or flying with the airline (for a period of time determined by the airline) if they refuse to wear a face mask.

Although airlines are not responsible for enforcing compliance with the Mandatory Face Masks Direction, they can report non-compliance to the Queensland Police Service or Australian Federal Police through their current processes.

Queensland Police Service and Australian Federal Police officers may take action if a person refuses to wear a face mask without a lawful reason. A person may be given a move-on direction to not board a flight or to leave the airport for up to a 24 hour period. If someone refuses a police direction to wear a mask, police officers can issue an on-the-spot fine of $206, an infringement notice, or a notice to appear in court.