Who can come into Queensland?

The Queensland border is closed to anyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days. Currently all of New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory are hotspots. Anyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days will no longer be able to quarantine in Queensland and will be turned away at our border. This applies to everyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days, except people needed in Queensland for essential activities including people needed for Queensland for specialist work that cannot be performed by someone in Queensland, to comply with a court order or receive essential health care. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home by air and new residents can relocate to Queensland but, they will have to quarantine in government provided accommodation at their own expense.

You will also have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days when you enter Queensland if you:

• have been overseas in last 14 days
• have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (if you are allowed to enter)
• have COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days
• are a Queensland border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in New South Wales
• are a New South Wales border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in either Queensland or New South Wales (unless you are travelling outside the Queensland border zone for a permitted purpose).

Does the hardening of the NSW/QLD border apply to NT/SA border?

No, the Northern Territory and South Australia are not declared COVID-19 hotspots. The hardening of the border restrictions only applies to areas declared as COVID-19 hotspots.

Do I have to complete 14 days of mandatory quarantine if I come to Queensland?

Yes. There are only very limited circumstances where a person will not be required to complete mandatory quarantine at their own expense when entering Queensland from a hotspot.

You will have to quarantine when you enter Queensland if you:

• have been overseas in the last 14 days
• have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (and are allowed to enter Queensland)
• have had COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days
• are a Queensland border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in New South Wales
• are a New South Wales border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in in either Queensland or New South Wales (unless you are travelling outside the Queensland border zone for a permitted purpose).

You do not have to quarantine if you:

• need to come to Queensland to complete an essential activity
• arrive into Queensland by air and you transfer directly to another flight to leave Queensland or quarantine until your flight out of Queensland
• were in a COVID-19 hotspot for the sole purpose of transiting through an airport
• can provide evidence that you completed mandatory hotel quarantine in a COVID-19 hotspot and immediately transited to Queensland
• are a border zone resident and have not been in a hotspot in the last 14 days.

I’ve been in a hotspot in the last 14 days, am I allowed to enter Queensland if I quarantine?

You are only allowed to enter Queensland if you have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days, if:

• your usual residence is in Queensland or you are moving to Queensland
• you are a border zone resident
• you need to comply with an order to attend a Court or Tribunal or to give effect to orders of the Court or Tribunal
• you have to fulfil an obligation relating to shared parenting or child contact
• you have to assist with or participate in a State or Commonwealth law enforcement investigation or other action at the request or direction of a State or Commonwealth department or law enforcement agency
• you need to come to Queensland to complete an essential activity
• you arrive into Queensland by air and you transfer directly to another flight to leave Queensland and don’t leave the airport or quarantine until your flight out of Queensland
• you were in a COVID-19 hotspot for the sole purpose of transiting through an airport and didn’t leave the airport
• you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, parents and guardians can accompany students who are minors
• you are entering to receive essential health care, or to provide support to a person receiving essential health care.
• you are a member of an aircrew and are New South Wales border zone resident who is going past the Queensland Border zone in the course of your duties.

You will have to provide evidence of the above when entering Queensland.

You will be required to complete 14 days mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation at your own expense unless you are entering Queensland for an essential activity, transiting through an airport or you have been granted a Chief Health Officer exemption stating you do not need to quarantine.

What do I need to do to be able to enter Queensland?

Everyone entering Queensland from another State or Territory must:

• provide a Queensland Border Declaration Pass
• provide satisfactory evidence of identity such as a driver’s license or Medicare card
• any other evidence required
• commit to get tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms within 14 days of entering Queensland.

Children do not need to provide proof of identity.

Are there any extra rules I need to be aware of if I am entering Queensland from a hotspot to perform an essential activity?

If you are allowed to enter Queensland without quarantining, you will need to:

• keep a record of your close contacts for 14 days after arriving in Queensland, including their:
  • name (if available)
  • phone number or email address (if available)
  • the day, time and location that you saw them
• provide the records to an emergency public health officer if you are asked for them
• minimise contact with others for 14 days or the duration of your stay in Queensland (whichever is shorter)
• practice physical distancing whenever possible
• only remain in Queensland for the time necessary to carry out the activity
• comply with any relevant Public Health Directions
• comply with any protocol, (e.g. Protocol for Protocol for Maritime Crew for Freight movements entering Queensland) approved by the Chief Health Officer that relates to the essential activity to be performed.

What is a close contact?

A close contact is someone who:

• You have been in an enclosed space with them for 2 hours or longer
• You have been within 1.5 metres of them for 15 minutes or longer.

What will happen if there is an outbreak somewhere else in the country?

We are continuously monitoring the situation within other jurisdictions across the country.

We will consider declaring other hotspots or reimplementing border restrictions on other states if there are outbreaks and uncontrolled community transmission.

Questions about Queensland residents

I’m a Queensland resident. Can I return to Queensland?

Yes. You can return to Queensland. You will only be allowed to enter Queensland by air unless you are a Queensland border zone resident entering after travelling within the border zone.

If you are a Queensland resident who has been to a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days you must quarantine for 14 days at your own expense.

If you are returning to Queensland to perform an essential activity you may not be required to quarantine at your own expense, but will still need to follow some set rules (such as minimising contact with the community and keeping a written records of close contacts for 14 days), depending on what type of essential activity you are doing.

If you were performing an essential activity in the COVID-19 hotspot, but are not going to be performing the essential activity in Queensland, you will have to complete 14 days quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

If you have COVID-19 (or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days), symptoms of COVID-19, have been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 or have travelled overseas in the last 14 days you must quarantine when you return to Queensland.

You will be directed by an Emergency Officer as to where you must quarantine. This will be at government arranged accommodation at your own cost.

All persons wanting to enter Queensland must apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass with the exception of people responding to an emergency, people in custody required in Queensland and maritime crew who are not required to complete one under the Protocol for Maritime Crew.

I’m a Queensland resident and need to travel interstate for health care/surgery. Will I need to quarantine for 14 days when I get home?

You will have to quarantine if you travelled to a hotspot (New South Wales, Victoria or the Australian Capital Territory) for health care. If you are a border zone resident who received health care inside the border zone you will not have to quarantine. You do not have to quarantine if you received health care in South Australia, Northern Territory, Western Australia or Tasmania and did not travel through a hotspot to get there.

My child attends boarding school in Queensland. Can they return to Queensland without quarantining?

There are class exemptions in place for boarding school students. To find out what rules apply please contact your school directly.

Can I go to Byron Bay for the weekend?

No, Byron Bay is a declared COVID-19 hotspot. If you travel to Byron Bay you will not be able to return to Queensland via road. You will be turned away at the border and required to drive to an airport to fly into Queensland or have to arrange alternative accommodation in New South Wales. If you enter Queensland via air you will have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation in Queensland for 14 days at your own expense when you arrive back in Queensland.

Can I visit a vulnerable family member or friend in New South Wales?

No. You will no longer be able to visit vulnerable family members or friends at their homes, in hospitals, aged care facilities or in congregate disability living facilities in New South Wales. If you do visit a vulnerable family member or friend in New South Wales (or any other COVID-19 hotspot), you will not be able to re-enter Queensland via road and will have to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at your own expense when you come home by air.

Only Queensland border zone residents are allowed to visit people in the New South Wales border zone.

Questions about border zone residents

Who is a border zone resident?

A border zone resident is someone who lives in a community on the Queensland New South Wales border. View the border zone map. This includes both sides of the border – people who live in Queensland but work or go to school in their neighbouring border town, or people who live in New South Wales but come to work or school in their neighbouring border town in Queensland. Border zone residents can cross the border for any purpose.

Queensland border zone residents cannot travel outside the border zone in New South Wales (but can travel anywhere within Queensland) and New South Wales border zone residents cannot travel outside the border zone in either Queensland or New South Wales.

I’m a border zone resident do I have to do a border declaration pass every time I cross the border?

A border declaration pass is valid for 7 days from the date you complete it. You will need to complete a new border declaration pass every 7 days or more regularly if your circumstances have changed. For example, if you develop COVID-19 symptoms within 7 days of completing the pass.

I live in the New South Wales border zone, can I go to my job on the Gold Coast?

Yes, border zone residents can travel to the Gold Coast for work. You will need to have a valid border declaration pass to travel to the Gold Coast. You must not have travelled to an area in New South Wales outside of the border zone in the 14 days prior to entering Queensland. For example, you cannot visit friends in Lennox Head on the weekend and then attend work on the Gold Coast on Monday.

View the border zone map.

I am a border zone resident, can I cross the border for sport or recreation/ visit friends and family/ help a vulnerable family member?

Yes. If you are a border zone resident you can cross the border for any purpose this includes work, recreation and social activities. Queensland border zone residents cannot travel outside the border zone in New South Wales (but can travel anywhere within Queensland) and New South Wales border zone residents cannot travel outside the border zone in either Queensland or New South Wales (unless you are travelling outside the Queensland border zone for a permitted purpose). You must ensure you follow any Public Health Directions in the relevant state while on that side of the border.

Any border zone residents who have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days will have to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at their own expense when they enter Queensland. The whole state of New South Wales has been declared as a COVID-19 hotspot.

View the border zone map.

I am a border zone resident, can I visit friends in New South Wales who don’t live in a border zone and still enter Queensland?

No, you are not allowed to travel outside of an area of New South Wales outside of the border zone and enter Queensland. Any border zone residents who have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days will have to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at their own expense when they enter Queensland. The whole state of New South Wales has been declared as a COVID-19 hotspot.

For example, if you live in the Tweed Shire and travel to Ballina to visit friends over the weekend you will not be able to go to your work on the Gold Coast on Monday.

View the border zone map.

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 border zone resident who usually receives regular health care across the border, you can cross the border to receive health care within the border zone. A Queensland border zone resident who travels within the border zone in New South Wales can re-enter Queensland by road as long as you don’t travel to an area of New South Wales outside of the border zone.

For example, if you are a Queensland border zone resident who usually receives treatment at the John Flynn hospital you can continue to receive this treatment. There is no need to cancel or reschedule your appointments.

View the border zone map.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care outside of the Queensland border zone.

Do I need to prove that I’m a border zone resident?

Yes. In addition to a Border Declaration Pass, you will also need to provide proof that you live in a border zone. This proof can include a driver’s license or another document that contains your address.

View the border zone map.

I’m a Queensland border zone resident and have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days, can I still enter Queensland?

Yes. You can return to Queensland but you must quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at your own expense. You will not be permitted to enter Queensland by road, you will only be able to enter Queensland by air, unless you have an exemption from the Chief Health Officer. Exemptions will only be granted in extreme exceptional circumstances.

The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are truck drivers, workers related to the transport of freight and logistics, people receiving essential health care, people performing essential activities and border zone residents. All persons wanting to enter Queensland must apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass .

View the border zone map.

I’m a border zone resident in New South Wales. Can I travel to Coolangatta airport to leave Queensland?

Yes. New South Wales border zone residents can travel directly to Coolangatta airport by private vehicle, taxi or rideshare without stopping or exiting the vehicle to catch a flight to leave Queensland. It is recommended that you wear a mask while travelling in a taxi or rideshare.

View the border zone map.

I’m a border zone resident can I cross the border in a taxi, rideshare or on public transport?

Yes. Border zone residents can cross the border on public transport or in a taxi or rideshare.

View the border zone map.

I’m a border zone resident, can I cross the border by sea?

Yes, if you are a border zone resident you will be able to enter Queensland or New South Wales by sea if you do not go past of the border zone.

View the border zone map.

I’m a New South Wales border resident and a construction worker can I travel to a worksite outside of the border zone in Queensland?

Yes. You will be able to travel to a construction site anywhere in Queensland for work as long as you:

• travel by private vehicle to and from the construction site without exiting the vehicle
• do not leave the construction site except to travel back home.

From Monday 28 September, New South Wales Border residents travelling to a construction site in Queensland will need to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

View the border zone map.

I live in the Tweed Shire in the postcode area 2483, why aren’t I considered a border zone resident?

The border zone is determined by postcode areas not by local government areas (LGAs).

These are difficult decisions, however these restrictions are in place for the protection of Queenslanders. We understand there will be some communities close to, but not immediately neighbouring the border, that won’t fall into these border communities and maybe inconvenienced by these restrictions.

The border zone decision balances the health and safety of Queenslanders with preventing the need to put back in place more restrictions. The border zone was decided based on the location of key services for border towns. This includes both sides of the border – people who live in Queensland but work or go to school in their neighbouring border town, or people who live in New South Wales but come to work or school in their neighbouring border town in Queensland.

View the border zone map.

I don’t live in a border zone but I  have an informal shared parenting arrangement with someone who lives in the New South Wales border zone can I enter the border zone for this?/ I live in the New South Wales Border zone and have an informal parenting arrangement with someone who lives outside the Queensland border zone can I go past the Queensland border zone for this?

Yes. People living outside the Queensland border zone can enter the New South Wales border zone to complete a shared parenting or child contact obligation without needing to quarantine when they return to Queensland. Similarly, New South Wales border zone residents can go past the Queensland border zone to complete shared parenting or child contact obligations.

If the Queensland resident child has stayed in the New South Wales border zone they will be able to return to Queensland without quarantining, even if they are not accompanied by an adult. If the Queensland resident child went further into New South Wales they will need to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days with an adult.

A New South Wales border zone resident child can go anywhere in Queensland for shared parenting or child contact arrangements and not have to quarantine, even if they are not accompanied by an adult. If they have to go outside the Queensland border zone they will need to complete a General border declaration pass, not a Border zone declaration pass.

View the border zone map.

Questions about transferring through a hotspot

If I have a layover in a hotspot am I able to enter Queensland?

Yes. If you have had a layover in an airport located in a hotspot you will be able to enter Queensland as long as you did not leave the airport.

Police at the border will ask you for evidence that you were only in New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory or Victorian to transfer flights.

If I travel through a hotspot by road am I able to enter Queensland?

No. You can only enter Queensland from a hotspot if you travel by air. You cannot travel by road through a hotspot and enter Queensland.

The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are truck drivers, workers related to the transport of freight and logistics, people receiving essential health care, people performing essential activities and border zone residents.

If you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, you may enter by road or rail only if a commercial flight to Queensland is not available to you within 300km of your primary place of residence.

I’ve come from a hotspot will I be able to transfer to another flight in Queensland?

Yes, you can enter Queensland from another State or Territory by air in order to transfer to another flight to leave Queensland. You must remain in the airport until you transfer to another flight or you can quarantine until your flight out of Queensland.

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

If you are arriving into Queensland from interstate and have a long layover there are different steps depending on how long your layover is:

• less than 8 hours - you will have to stay at the airport
• 8 to 24 hours - you will be directed by an emergency public health officer to a transit hotel at no charge to you
• longer than 24 hours - you will be directed by an emergency public health officer to a transit hotel and you will be required to pay for the number of nights you stay.

Do I have to quarantine in Queensland when I’m returning from overseas?

Yes. If Queensland is not your final destination you must quarantine here before continuing your journey.

Why can I no longer visit Queensland for compassionate grounds?

These are really tough times we have had to make tough decisions to protect the lives of Queenslanders. You can apply for an exemption from the Chief Health Officer if you believe extreme exceptional circumstances exist. In the rare circumstances an exemption is granted, you will still have to complete quarantine, but may be permitted to leave quarantine to visit a dying relative (if the hospital agrees) or in another exceptional circumstance.

Does everyone coming from hotspot have to fly to come to Queensland?

Yes. The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are truck drivers, workers related to the transport of freight and logistics, people receiving essential health care, people performing essential activities, and border zone residents. Border zone residents of New South Wales can only enter Queensland by road to travel with the border zone they are not permitted to travel to areas of Queensland outside of the border zone.

Maritime crew can enter Queensland by ship.

If you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, you may enter by road or rail only if a commercial flight to Queensland is not available to you within 300km of your primary place of residence.

I’m a border resident in the Northern Territory/ South Australia, can I still drive into Queensland?

Yes, people coming from locations that are not declared COVID-19 hotspots can still drive over the border into Queensland. You will be required to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

What do I do with my car if I’m returning from a hotspot?

You will have to arrange for storage of your car at your own expense. You can only enter Queensland from a hotspot via air.

The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are truck drivers, workers related to the transport of freight and logistics, people receiving essential health care, people performing essential activities and border zone residents.

If you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, you may enter by road or rail only if a commercial flight to Queensland is not available to you within 300km of your primary place of residence.

Questions about essential activities

Who is classed as performing an essential activity?

#essential-activity

People performing an essential activity in Queensland need to provide evidence and complete quarantine as required by the table below when entering Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot. People who are not Queensland residents, can only remain in Queensland for the time necessary to complete the essential activity. The below table outlines who these people include:

Questions about exemptions

Can I apply for an exemption to enter Queensland or from requirement to quarantine?

The Chief Health Officer may give a person or a group of people an exemption from the Border Restrictions Direction:

• to enter Queensland if the Chief Health Officer considers the person are essential for the proper functioning of the State and the person must be physically present in Queensland
• to complete quarantine in a place outside of a government-nominated hotel
• from the requirement to quarantine if exceptional circumstances exist
• from a requirement in this Direction if other extreme exceptional circumstances exist

Apply for an exemption.

Can I apply for an exemption from quarantining in government arranged accommodation? I want to quarantine at my home because I need special care.

The Chief Health Officer can give an exemption from quarantine only for very exceptional circumstances. If you need special care, you will be placed in government accommodation that is medically supported to provide your care. Your carer will be placed into quarantine with you if you need care from a particular person.

Will I be able to apply for an exemption if I have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days?

You should only apply for an exemption if extreme exceptional circumstances exist. You will need to get this exemption before you can enter Queensland.

You can request an exemption online using the Health Service Portal. You may need to provide evidence to support your request.

Can I apply for an exemption for a wedding?

Exemptions are very unlikely to be granted for weddings.

Can I apply for an exemption to attend a funeral?

An exemption to attend a funeral is only likely to be granted if you complete 14 days of quarantine in government arranged accommodation at your own expense prior to the funeral.

You can request an exemption online using the Health Service Portal. You may need to provide evidence to support your request.

Can I apply for an exemption to visit a terminally ill relative?

An exemption may be able to be granted for you to visit a dying relative if evidence can be provided. If an exemption was granted, you would have to quarantine for 14 days, however, you would be able to leave quarantine to visit your relative.

You can request an exemption online using the Health Service Portal. You may need to provide evidence to support your request.

I have been in a declared hotspot and I have previously received an exemption to enter Queensland, is this still valid?

If you received an exemption prior to a hotspot being declared and have not yet entered Queensland, your exemption is no longer valid. You can apply for a new exemption.

Exemptions will only be granted in extreme exceptional circumstances. You may not be granted the same exemption now that border restrictions have been tightened.

Questions about specialist workers

What is a specialist worker?

A specialist worker is someone who is required to provide services to Queensland, essential to the continuing running of Queensland. Specialist worker exemptions are only provided in exceptional circumstances or in line with limited conditions prescribed in the Border Restrictions Direction (No 14).

Employers should be undertaking long-term resource and workforce planning that is not dependent on specialist worker exemptions being granted.

Specialist worker exemption applications must be submitted by the employer, government agency or entity that the specialist worker is working/contracting for with evidence of the following:

1. A written explanation of the essential activity the specialist worker is to enter Queensland for
2. Documentation that demonstrates why this service is critical to Queensland. It must detail:
   1. why these services cannot be obtained in Queensland
   2. why these services must be provided without delay
   3. why the specialist worker must be physically present in Queensland to provide the service or perform the duty
   4. the employer’s plan to manage preventing the transmission of COVID-19 amongst other employees and the community. The plan must comply with the requirements specified by the Chief Health Officer (DOCX).

How can I get approval to come to Queensland as a specialist health worker?

Specialist health workers need to follow the same steps outlined for specialist workers.

The following requirements need to be met by specialist workers are:

• the services can’t be obtained in Queensland
• the services are provided without delay
• the person needs to be physically present in Queensland to complete the duty
• the employer needs to have a plan in place, including an approved quarantine management plan, that follows the requirements specified by the Chief Health Officer to manage stopping the spread of COVID-19 amongst its employees and the community.

Specialist workers must provide evidence of the following when entering Queensland:

• their exemption from the Chief Health Officer as a specialist worker
• the name of their employer
• that they are entering Queensland to go directly to work
• the location of the worksite or work camp
• the location of where they will be accommodated in Queensland while performing the essential activity
• comply with any conditions forming part of their exemption as a specialist worker for example they may be required to quarantine at their work site for 14 days.

Only people with specialist skills that are not available in Queensland will be granted approval to enter Queensland as a specialist health worker. A Hospital and Health Service within Queensland or your employer will be required to confirm that you have specialist skills required in Queensland.

I am employed by a private construction company providing critical infrastructure work. What evidence do I need to provide to enter Queensland from a hotspot?

All specialist workers who are undertaking essential activities in Queensland will need to provide evidence of the following to enter Queensland:

• the name of their employer
• that they are specialist worker, in a form approved by the Chief Health Officer
• that they are entering Queensland to go directly to work
• the location of the worksite or work camp
• the location of where they will be accommodated in Queensland while performing the essential activity.

I have been in a declared hotspot and I have previously received an exemption to enter Queensland, is this still valid?

If you received an exemption prior to a hotspot being declared and have not yet entered Queensland, your exemption is no longer valid. You can apply for a new exemption.

Exemptions will only be granted in extreme exceptional circumstances. You may not be granted the same exemption now that border restrictions have been tightened.

I am a Queensland resident who works in New South Wales. Do I need to apply to be a specialist worker?

Specialist worker exemptions are for people who are undertaking essential activities in Queensland. If you are returning home from a hotspot you will have to quarantine at a hotel for 14 days at your own expense. If you are returning to Queensland to undertake an essential activity in Queensland, you will need to apply to be considered as a specialist worker and may be required to quarantine.

Questions about hotspots

What is a hotspot?

Hotspots are places in Australia where health officials have found a lot of people with COVID-19. Hotspots are legally listed so that people travelling from those high-risk areas into Queensland can be identified.

Hotspots are declared to stop people who have travelled to high-risk areas entering Queensland or to require people from high risk areas to complete 14 days of quarantine. The latest list of declared hotspots can be found on the Queensland Health website.

People from hotspots are not able to enter Queensland unless they are entering for a limited number of essential activities. Queensland residents returning from a hotspot will have to quarantine at a hotel for 14 days at their own expense. This will help reduce the chance that they might infect other people.

I’ve been overseas. Can I enter Queensland?

Yes, you can fly into Queensland from overseas and will be required to quarantine in accordance with the Self-quarantine for Persons arriving in Queensland from overseas Direction.

Since entering Queensland, a place I have been in the last 14 days has been declared a hotspot, what do I need to do?

If you develop symptoms you should get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible and then immediately self-quarantine. It is important to remember that we are all in this together. The onus remains on our community to remember that the pandemic is far from over. We need to rapidly respond to outbreaks like this by testing and self-quarantining, so we can stop the spread.

There are testing facilities right across the state including GPs, fever clinics and pop up clinics. Find your nearest testing location.

Can I enter Queensland if I have been in NSW but not in Sydney in the last 14 days?

The entire state of New South Wales is now declared as a COVID-19 hotspot. A border zone resident from a border community in New South Wales can enter Queensland for any purpose.

Questions about freight services

Will freight and equipment be able to cross the border into Queensland?

Yes. Freight and logistic workers can enter Queensland, via road, rail and air. Commercial freight operations can include moving a range of different things for a variety of industries, such as fresh food and groceries, pharmaceuticals, heavy haulage for construction equipment, new vehicles, and furniture removals.

The transport of freight includes the commercial transport of livestock or other live animals such as beehives. It can also include passenger transport services like coaches. Any commercial passenger operations must only be transporting passengers that are permitted to enter Queensland.

There are additional requirements for freight and logistics operators entering Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot such as:

• they comply with the Queensland Freight Protocol including:
  • keeping records of people they come into close contact with while in Queensland
  • practise physical distancing wherever possible, including maintaining a distance of at least 1.5 metres from people.

I’m a freight and logistics operator. Do I need to get tested?

Voluntary testing for COVID-19 is strongly encouraged for any freight or logistics operator who is travelling into and out of COVID-19 hotspots and entering Queensland.

From 9 September 2020, the Queensland Freight Protocol recommends freight and logistics operators undertake voluntary testing every 7 days while they continue to travel into and out of COVID-19 hotspots. This will help to keep our essential drivers, their families, and the community safe from the spread of COVID-19.

If you are feeling unwell and develop any COVID-19 symptoms, you should not go to work and must be tested immediately. You will then be required to follow any public health advice, including remaining isolated until you receive your test result. Even if you test negative, you should not return to work until your symptoms have passed.

When you’re are attending a Queensland Health COVID-19 testing facility, you should identify yourself as a freight and logistics operator by showing a copy of your valid Freight and Logistics Border Pass. This will entitle you to be tested, even if asymptomatic, and you will be prioritised for testing.

Do freight and logistics operators have to get tested every 7 days if they have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days?

Freight and logistic operators do not have to get a COVID-19 test if they have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days. At this stage, testing is recommended, but not mandatory.

I’m off duty, do I still need to keep records?

Yes, freight and logistics operators who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the 14 days before their arrival in Queensland are required to maintain records of close contacts at all times while they are in Queensland until 14 days has passed since they were in the hotspot or they leave Queensland. This includes when they are off-duty, between shifts, or on recreational days.

I operate a rideshare. Am I a passenger transport operator?

No, rideshare operators are not passenger transport operators for the purposes of the Queensland Freight Protocol.

Do freight and logistics operators have to quarantine if they are re-entering Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot?

Queensland resident freight and logistics operators can re-enter Queensland by road, rail or air to reposition for work if they were required to travel to a COVID-19 hotspot in the course of their work, and their essential activity is complete. They must be re-entering to re-commence work as a freight and logistics operator.

Do freight and logistics operators need a Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

Yes, freight and logistics operators do need a Queensland Border Declaration Pass under the category of Freight and Logistics.

I’m a New South Wales resident freight driver. Can I visit friends in Queensland once I’ve completed my freight task?

No. Freight and logistics operators who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the 14 days prior to entering Queensland may only remain in Queensland for the time needed to complete their essential activity. Social and recreational activities are not permitted while an operator is in Queensland. Once the task is complete the operator must depart Queensland by the most direct route possible.

Questions about FIFO workers

I’m a FIFO worker who lives outside Queensland. Can I enter Queensland?

FIFO workers will be able to enter Queensland from anywhere in Australia other than a hotspot.

FIFO workers who live in a hotspot will only be permitted to enter Queensland for work if the criteria of a specialist worker. You will be required to quarantine for 14 days at your worksite or employer provided accommodation in Queensland and leave quarantine only to carry out your work.

Specialist workers are people who are required to provide a service in Queensland:

A specialist worker must be able to prove that:

• the services can’t be obtained in Queensland
• the services are provided without delay
• the person needs to be physically present in Queensland to complete the duty
• their employer has a plan in place, including an approved quarantine management plan, that follows the requirements specified by the Chief Health Officer to manage stopping the spread of COVID-19 amongst its employees and the community

There will only be a very small number of FIFO workers who will be able to be classified as a specialist worker.

I’m a FIFO worker coming from a hotspot, how do I prove I am a specialist worker?

FIFO workers can only enter Queensland from a hotspot if they are a specialist worker.

Specialist workers must:

• provide evidence of their exemption as a specialist worker when entering Queensland
• the name of their employer
• that they are entering Queensland to go directly to work
• the location of the worksite or work camp
• the location of where they will be accommodated in Queensland while performing the essential activity
• comply with any conditions forming part of their approval as a specialist worker for example they may be required to quarantine at their work site for 14 days.

I employ FIFO workers. What do I need to do?

Employers of FIFO workers travelling from hotspots will need to have a health plan (DOCX) in place. The health plan must outline how the employer will conduct health screening and manage and prevent any potential transmission at the worksite or in the community. You will also need to work with your Queensland government agency such as Department of Natural Resources, Mining and Energy or the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries to obtain the relevant form approved by the Chief Health Officer.

I’m a FIFO worker who lives and works inside Queensland. Does any of this apply to me?

FIFO workers who live and work in Queensland can continue to work in any FIFO roles in Queensland. However, like all Queensland residents, if you have travelled overseas in the last 14 days or visited a COVID-19 hotspot then you will need to self-quarantine for 14 days. Your employer is strongly advised by industry to have a health plan (DOCX).

I’m a FIFO worker who doesn’t live in a hotpot, will I still be able to cross the border for work?

Yes, FIFO workers who do not live in a COVID-19 hotspot will be able to enter Queensland by road or air if they have not been in a hotspot in the last 14 days. The only people allowed to transit through a hotspot by road are freight drivers or certain essential emergency workers.

Questions about enforcement

How will the border restrictions be enforced?

Queensland Police and other Emergency Officers will be responsible for enforcing the measures under the Public Health Act 2005.

Existing compliance routines for essential services vehicle will remain in place to minimise disruption.

What is the penalty for not complying with the Border Direction?

Failure to comply with the Borders Direction may be subject to enforcement, including an on the spot fine of $4,003, a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345 or 6 months imprisonment.

In addition, if you provide false, misleading or incorrect information on a Queensland Border Declaration Pass it is an offence punishable by a fine of $4,003, a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345 or 6 months imprisonment.

What surveillance will be in place to make sure people follow the new rules?

All people entering Queensland from interstate, including Queensland residents, will need to complete a Border Declaration Pass to prove that they are permitted to enter Queensland and to confirm that they have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the previous 14 days.

The Queensland Police Service will continue their checks at entry points to the state and will be enforcing the requirements.

If you provide false, misleading or incorrect information on a Queensland Border Declaration Pass it is an offence punishable by a fine of $4,004, a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345 or 6 months imprisonment.

Questions about seasonal workers

What is a seasonal worker?

Under the Seasonal Workers Health Management Plans Direction, a seasonal worker refers to:

• An employee or contractor who usually lives outside of Queensland who travels to, and stays within, Queensland to work in agribusiness or commercial fishing; or
• An employee or contractor who:
  • usually lives in Queensland who travels from place to place within Queensland to work in agribusiness or commercial fishing
  • does not return to their usual place of residence each day
  • For example, workers on broadacre or crop farms who travel from farm to farm harvesting or planting crops are seasonal workers

Can a seasonal worker come to work in Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot?

No, seasonal workers are not permitted to enter Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot. A seasonal worker can move to Queensland to make it their new place of residence and complete 14 days of quarantine at their own expense, like other people who may be moving to Queensland to start new jobs. They must also have a place of residence for when they leave quarantine and be able to provide evidence of where this place is.

Questions about air and maritime crew

Do maritime crew who do not disembark their vessel need to complete the Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

No, crew members who are not disembarking the vessel in Queensland do not need to complete the Queensland Border Declaration Pass. You should check the Protocol for Maritime Crew for the latest advice about requirements for maritime crew.

What are the rules for maritime crew?

Maritime crew disembarking a vessel to remain in Queensland will need to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

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

Can airline crew leave quarantine accommodation to attend mandatory training?

Airline crew can leave the place of quarantine for essential regulatory or safety flight related duties like flight simulation training or safety and security training.

Do airline crew need to quarantine in government arranged accommodation?

Airline crew can complete their quarantine in airline crew accommodation provided by their employer, their residence or a nominated premises as directed by a public health emergency officer.

Questions about what happens at the border

What evidence do I need at the border?

You will need to present your Queensland Border Declaration Pass and photo ID. There may be other evidence you need to provide depending on your reason for entering Queensland. You can check evidence requirements here.

What is the Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

The Queensland Border Declaration Pass requires you to answer the following questions.

• What is your name?
• What is your date of birth?
• What is your phone number?
• What is your address?
• What is your email address?
• In the last 14 days have you:
  • been overseas
  • been in COVID-19 hotspot
  • been in contact with someone who has COVID-19
  • had COVID-19 symptoms
  • had COVID-19
  • been in a COVID-19 hotpot outside of the border zone (if you are a border resident)?
• If you have been to a hotspot in the last 14 days you will be asked if:
  • you are a specialist worker
  • you were transiting through a hotspot
• Any other information required by an emergency public health officer.
• Declare that the information provided is true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
• Show satisfactory ID at the border such as your driver’s license or Medicare card.

In addition, you will have to agree to go and get a COVID-19 test if you develop COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of entering Queensland. Queensland Health may contact you to remind you that you should be monitoring yourself for symptoms and getting tested if you develop symptoms.

Once you receive your Queensland Border Declaration Pass you will need to enter Queensland within 7 days. If you don’t you will need to apply for new Queensland Border Pass.

How long is a Queensland Border Declaration Pass valid for?

A Queensland Border Declaration Pass is valid for 7 days from the day the declaration is made. If any of the information you provide on the pass changes, you should immediately complete a new Border Pass. An example of a change of circumstances would be if you develop symptoms of COVID-19. If you go overseas, enter a COVID-19 hotspot, come into contact with someone with COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms you will need to apply for a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

What happens if I remain in Queensland for more than 7 days – do I need to reapply?

You only require a valid Queensland Border Declaration Pass to cross the border and enter Queensland. If you remain in Queensland for more than 7 days you will not need to keep reapplying for a new Pass. You will only need to reapply for another Pass if you plan to leave Queensland and re‑enter after 7 days has passed.

Why do I need to do it every 7 days?

To ensure the information being declared remains true and correct. You should also complete a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass if your details change within 7 days of completing your Pass e.g. if you develop COVID-19 symptoms.

If you develop COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of entering Queensland you should immediately present for a COVID-19 test.

What happens if I crossed the border and was not aware of this?

If you are travelling near a border you should be careful not to cross a border and risk a fine. If you mistakenly enter Queensland without a Border Declaration Pass you risk being fined $4,003.

If you cross the border you will have either entered through a closed road, or a vehicle control point and should expect to be investigated. There are signs in place leading up to the border and at all key border crossings.

I already have a border pass do I need to apply for a new one after 3:00pm 23 September?

Yes. Everyone will be required to complete a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass if entering after 3:00pm 23 September.

Why do I need a pass for Queensland if I already did a pass for NSW?

Queensland has different border controls to New South Wales. The permit granted for entry to New South Wales is different to the Border Declaration Pass for Queensland.

I don’t have access to a printer can I show my Queensland Border Declaration Pass on my phone?

Yes, Queensland Border Declaration Passes can be presented either in printed or electronic form. If you have your Pass on your phone or another hand held device you won’t be able to go through any express lanes.

Police also have Queensland Border Declaration Pass forms in hard copy for people to complete as they cross the border.

What do the different border pass categories mean?

There are six different valid border pass categories:

• G - for all people who have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot
• S - for people claiming to provide essential activity exemption entering from a hotspot
• Q - for people entering from a hotspot who are not claiming an exemption from quarantine
• F – for freight and logistics workers
• X – for border zone residents
• H –Day admission, procedure or appointment for essential health care

Who is exempt from completing a Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

The following categories of people are exempt from completing a Queensland Border Declaration Pass:

• maritime crew not required to complete a Pass under the Protocol for Maritime Crew
• a person entering Queensland to respond to an emergency (could include national and state security employees, police, health or emergency services workers). e.g. a paramedic driving an ambulance over the border with a patient with life threatening injuries
• a passenger of an ambulance or aeromedical service
• people in the custody of a state or commonwealth law enforcement agency who have to enter Queensland to comply with a court order or assist with or participate in an investigation or other action at the direction of the law enforcement agency.

I’m arriving into Queensland from overseas, do I need to complete a border declaration pass?

No, people arriving into Queensland from overseas will not have to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass. People arriving in Queensland from overseas need to comply with the Self-quarantine for Persons Arriving from Overseas Direction.

Questions about quarantine

Why are quarantine fees being charged?

Mandatory quarantine is needed to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Queensland. The quarantine fee is proposed to reduce the financial burden of COVID-19 prevention measures on Queensland taxpayers. The total fee, which is a contribution to the overall cost of government arranged accommodation will help repay the government for the cost of providing quarantine to you.

I am coming to Queensland in my caravan where can I store it while completing my quarantine?

You can only enter Queensland from a hotspot by air. You will not be able to enter Queensland from a hotspot in your caravan.

The only people allowed to enter Queensland by road are truck drivers, workers related to the transport of freight and logistics, people receiving essential health care, people performing essential activities and border zone residents.

If you are a student at a higher education institution or boarding school and are entering Queensland for study, you may enter by road or rail only if a commercial flight to Queensland is not available to you within 300km of your primary place of residence.

Can Queensland residents quarantine in their own homes?

Quarantine must be in government arranged accommodation. Quarantine outside of government arranged accommodation will only be available in very limited circumstances.

You cannot arrange to quarantine at home or another pre-booked accommodation. This is due to the significant health risk that cannot be appropriately managed at other residences or accommodation providers. If the mandatory quarantine requirements are not strictly followed and people mix more easily in the community, there is unacceptable risk of COVID-19 transmission in the community.

Is there government organised accommodation available in regional Queensland as well?

Yes. The Queensland Government has arranged for quarantine accommodation in metro, regional and rural areas.

How do I get to the government arranged accommodation if I need to quarantine?

When you arrive at the airport transport to the government arranged accommodation may be provided or you may be required to arrange a taxi or ride share to the premises. You will not be permitted to take public transport to the premises.

If you are crossing the border via road you will be directed to drive directly to a government arranged hotel without stopping.

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.

If I am from Victoria but have been travelling in other states for more than 2 weeks, do I still need to complete 14 days of quarantine when I arrive in Queensland?

No, you will be able to enter Queensland without quarantining. On entry to Queensland you may be required to prove you have not been in Victoria, New South Wales or the Australian Capital Territory in the past 14 days. The Queensland border is closed to anyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days. Currently all of New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory are hotspots. Anyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days will no longer be able to quarantine in Queensland and will be turned away at our border. This applies to everyone who has been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the past 14 days, except people needed in Queensland for essential activities including people needed for Queensland for specialist work that cannot be performed by someone in Queensland, to comply with a court order or receive essential health care. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home by air and new residents can relocate to Queensland but, they will have to quarantine in government provided accommodation at their own expense.

You will also have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days when you enter Queensland if you:

• have been overseas in last 14 days
• have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (if you are allowed to enter)
• have COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days
• have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days
• are a Queensland border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in New South Wales are a New South Wales border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in either Queensland or New South Wales (unless you are travelling outside the Queensland border zone for a permitted purpose).

I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to attend a Court or Tribunal or give effect to orders of a Court or Tribunal do I need to quarantine?/ I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to assist with or participate in a State or Commonwealth law enforcement investigation do I need to quarantine?

Yes. You can leave your mandatory quarantine to attend a Court or Tribunal or give effect to orders of a Court or Tribunal or to assist with the law enforcement investigation. You must go directly where required without stopping and you must return straight back to your government organised quarantine accommodation. Police at your place of quarantine will be able to let you know about the requirements for leaving quarantine.

You will also be required to provide written evidence that you are required to be physically present in Queensland for these purposes.

I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to visit a terminally ill relative can I visit them while in quarantine?

You can only enter Queensland to visit a terminally ill relative if you are granted an exemption from the Chief Health Officer. If you are granted an exemption you will have to quarantine at government arranged accommodation at your own expense. You may be able to leave your mandatory quarantine to visit your terminally ill relative. Police at your place of quarantine will be able to let you know about the requirements for leaving quarantine.

You can apply for an exemption online.

I’m moving from a hotspot to live in Queensland, do I need to quarantine?

Yes. If you are moving to Queensland to live you will have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation at your own expense for 14 days. You will have to provide evidence of your new address in Queensland. If you are moving to Queensland for work, you will have to provide a letter from your employer confirming this.

I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to complete an obligation relating to shared parenting or a child contact arrangement. Will I/my child have to quarantine?

Yes. If you are coming to Queensland from a hotspot with your child for a shared parenting or child contact arrangement (informal, legal obligation or court ordered) you and your child will have to complete 14 days quarantine at government arranged accommodation at your own expense. If you are travelling to visit a child who lives in Queensland, your child will be allowed to visit you in quarantine. You will not be allowed to leave quarantine to spend time with your child.

You will have to apply for an exemption from the Chief Health Officer in order to send your child to Queensland from a hotspot by themselves. This is to ensure that no one under the age of 18 is unaccompanied in government arranged quarantine.

If you do not leave the airport when transporting your child to a hotspot, you will not have to complete quarantine upon your return to Queensland.

My child is coming home after visiting their other parent in a hotspot. Can they quarantine at home with me?

No. Everyone, including children, must quarantine in government arranged accommodation. You will need to quarantine with your child in the hotel, at your expense. If you have other children that you are caring for, they will need to quarantine with you unless you can make other arrangements for them to be cared for.

You will have to apply for an exemption from the Chief Health Officer for your child to transit home by themselves. This is to ensure that no one under the age of 18 is unaccompanied in government arranged quarantine.

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

If you decide you no longer want to remain in Queensland after you have started quarantine you will be able to leave before your 14 days is finished. You will have to leave Queensland by the most direct route possible and without stopping or coming into contact with anyone.

How much will quarantine cost? / How were the fees decided?

The government has worked with the hotel industry to ensure a range of suitable accommodation is available across Queensland for quarantine purposes. The government will continue to fund the costs of security for hotels, transport and logistics, which have not been included in the calculation of the costs payable by individuals, couples or families.

The costs are calculated as per the following:

• A minor/child is defined as 3 years of age until eighteen years of age.
• An infant aged up to 3 years of age will not be charged
• Meal charges will not be reduced or waived

Examples of the quarantine fees are:

*children are classified as 18 years and under.

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

No. Quarantine for people arriving from overseas 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.

I have a flight stop-over in Queensland, will I be charged the quarantine fee?

If you are entering Queensland by air in order to transfer to another flight, you may be required to go into government arranged accommodation at the airport. You will not be charged a fee if you are in transit for less than 24 hours.

If you are required to be accommodated for over 24-hours an invoice will be issued and the fee will be calculated based on the time spent in government arranged accommodation.

If I apply for a quarantine exemption and it is granted while I’m in accommodation, do I have to pay the bill?

You will need to pay the fee for the number of nights you stay in hotel quarantine.

If you cannot pay the full quarantine invoice at once by the due date, you may enter into a payment plan to repay the fee over a longer period. Details on how to arrange a payment plan will be on the invoice.

Once the quarantine fee invoice is issued by Queensland Government you will also have the opportunity to apply for a full or partial waiver. To apply for a fee waiver, complete the form online using the Health Service Portal.

When is the quarantine fee payable?

At the end of your quarantine period, an invoice for the fee will be sent to your nominated email or postal address. Payment is required within 30 days of the invoice date. If you have applied to have the fee waived, and your application is refused, then payment is due within 14 days after you receive a notice of the decision.

Sometimes you may need extra help to get through a difficult time. For free, confidential, independent financial advice visit moneysmart.gov.au or call the national debt helpline on 1800 007 007.

Free additional support and advice for anyone experiencing difficulties is available from the following services:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)
• Beyondblue – 1300 22 4636 (24 hours a day, seven days a week)

Are there payment plans available?

Yes. If you cannot pay the full quarantine fee by the invoice due date, you can enter into a payment plan to repay over time. The time period varies between 6, 12 and 18 months depending on the invoice balance.

Full details on how to apply for a payment plan will be on the invoice.

If your request is approved, you will be issued a payment plan agreement outlining the full terms and conditions.

Can I apply to have the quarantine fee waived? / Who is eligible?

You can apply to have all or part of the quarantine fee waived after you get the invoice. Once the quarantine fee invoice is issued you have 30 days to apply to have the amount waived

Waivers will be assessed on the following grounds:

• people who had a confirmed international arrival date into Queensland before midnight on 17 June 2020, even if they arrive after 1 July 2020
• financial hardship
• vulnerability
• other extenuating circumstances.

Financial hardship

You may be eligible for a fee waiver under the grounds of financial hardship. When an applicant requests a fee waiver on ground of financial hardship, the criteria for the decision will be based on the following:

The financial hardship template has been developed to assist you with completing your application – please note this is a guide only and not mandatory.

Vulnerability

You may be able to request of a fee waiver on grounds of vulnerability – this will be assessed on a case by case basis.

Anyone who is considered a vulnerable person (or carer), who does not meet the criteria for financial hardship, may apply for a waiver on the grounds of vulnerability.  To meet this criterion a person must demonstrate how the vulnerability affects their ability to meet their financial obligations.

Due to the nature of these grounds, the following are examples of where vulnerability may be considered grounds for a quarantine fee waiver:

• a person identifying as a refugee and/or the application is based on humanitarian reasons.
• a person with serious chronic illnesses/disability and/or is not able to take care of themselves.
• a person who is unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation by reason of age, illness, trauma, or disability or any other reason.
• people escaping domestic, family or sexual violence.
• A person performing the role of a carer for a person who may be considered as vulnerable.

When applying on these grounds, the following is considered mandatory evidence:

• copy of Queensland Health invoice.
• statement of reasons.

Other evidence that might be relevant, depending on the unique circumstances, are:

• visas
• Centrelink documentation
• police reports
• birth certificate.
• statutory declaration
• medical records / letter from doctor
• letter from registered DFV provider

To apply for a quarantine fee waiver once you have received an invoice, complete the form online using the Health Service Portal.

Will my travel insurance cover the quarantine fee?

Please contact your travel insurance company directly for more information.

Exemptions

Other places in Australia allow people to quarantine in their homes, why can’t I?

Each state and territory through their relevant legislation have different approaches to managing those returning from overseas or from a declared hotspot.

Quarantine for persons arriving in Queensland from overseas or from a declared hotspot must be in government arranged accommodation. This is due to the health risk that cannot be properly managed at other residences or accommodation providers.

I am from a non-English speaking background and did not understand that I was agreeing to pay the quarantine fee?

All people arriving in Queensland from overseas or from a declared hotspot you have to quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days, regardless of their cultural background.

Once the quarantine fee invoice has been issued by Queensland Government you have 30 days to apply to have the fee waived.

Information will be made available in many languages and should you or a family member require access to an interpreter please request from the hotel reception or through the Health Liaison Officer.

Can I apply for an exemption from quarantine?

There are very few reasons why an exemption from quarantine will be granted.

To apply for an exemption, complete the form online using the Health Service Portal.

If I have applied for a quarantine exemption, do I automatically get the quarantine fee waived?

No. An exemption from quarantine is not the same as a waiver for the quarantine fee. You will need to quarantine while your exemption is being considered, and you will be required to pay for the quarantine for a period of up to 14 days.

To apply for a quarantine exemption or to have the fee waived, complete the form online using the Health Service Portal.

Service inclusions

How will my accommodation be organised?

When you arrive in Queensland from overseas or from a declared hotspot, 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.

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?

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

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.

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

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

This is up to the discretion of each accommodation provider and depends on availability of police. We recommend talking to the reception about this upon your arrival.

Other

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

Everyone returning to Australia from overseas or from a declared COVID-19 hotspot must go into mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days in the city of their arrival.

If you are a Queensland resident or another person allowed to enter Queensland from a hotspot and have already served a 14 day quarantine period upon returning from overseas in another state or territory, you are not required to quarantine again in Queensland as long as you have:

• written confirmation of your quarantine period from a government authority of another State or Territory where government mandated quarantine was completed
• had a negative COVID-19 test after day 10 of your quarantine
• travelled straight from where you did your quarantine to an airport to leave the COVID-19 hotspot by private transport, a taxi (with a protective shield between the driver and passenger or a maxi taxi that allows for physical distancing between the driver and passenger) or transport arranged by a government authority, and you didn’t leave the airport. You must wear a protective mask while transiting to Queensland.

If you completed mandatory government quarantine in another State or Territory and cannot produce the above evidence, you must either quarantine in government arranged accommodation in Queensland.

If you stay in the city you have quarantined in after being released from quarantine and go into the community before travelling to Queensland, you will be required to do a further 14 days quarantine in government arranged accommodation in Queensland.

Additional restrictions may apply when entering Queensland, including the need to have a Queensland Border Declaration Pass. For full details see the Border Restrictions Direction.

What do I do if I am sick?

If you arrive in Queensland with any COVID-19 symptoms like a fever, cough, sore throat or shortness of breath, tell a health official immediately.

If you feel sick in quarantine tell the Health Liaison Officer or hotel staff immediately and stay isolated in your room.

Call emergency services on 000 if you are very unwell

What happens when I complete my 14 days of quarantine?

At the completion of your quarantine period, if you are well then a discharge form will be provided that allows you to leave your arranged accommodation on the check-out day. The discharge form can be kept as proof that a 14 day quarantine period was served following international travel.

You will be free to go about normal activities within the current government restrictions, while practicing social distancing and good hygiene.

An invoice for the quarantine fee payable by you will be sent by Queensland Government to your nominated email or postal address.

Questions about testing

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.

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 it is important that you isolate from others you may have been quarantining with. If you are quarantining with other family members, we will arrange another room for you so that you can isolate until you have recovered. If your clinical condition is such that you require hospital care, you will be transferred for isolation in hospital and further care.

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.

If I refuse to be tested, do I need to pay for the extra 10 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 10 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.

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 or a declared hotspot will be asked to take a COVID-19 test soon after entry to quarantine and before the completion of their 14 day quarantine in government arranged accommodation.

Why do I have to get tested if I develop COVID-19 symptoms within 14 days of entering Queensland?

Getting tested will help us find as many cases in the community as quickly as possible to stop the virus spreading. This will ensure we are doing everything we can to manage Queensland’s response to the pandemic.

If you have any of the COVID-19 symptoms, no matter how mild, get tested.

What happens if someone develops symptoms with COVID-19 after 14 days of entering Queensland?

You should get tested at any time if you have any COVID-19 symptoms present, no matter how mild. Symptoms may include:

• fever
• cough
• sore throat
• shortness of breath
• loss of smell or taste

Before your appointment, please call head and tell them about your symptoms so you can prepare for your visit.

Questions about coming to Queensland for health care from a hotspot

What is essential health care?

You can enter Queensland for essential health care without an exemption.

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
• An appointment at an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health service confirmed in writing by the service
• An appointment with a prescribed health practitioner at another premises, confirmed in writing by the practitioner .

An appointment with a prescribed health practitioner may include an appointment with a registered NDIS provider as part of a 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 cross the border for emergency health care?

If you are a New South Wales border zone resident who usually receives regular health care across the Queensland border, you can cross the border to receive health care within the border zone. You must apply for a Border Zone Resident Pass.

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.

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 form at the border.

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.

Read more about Entering Queensland for essential health care.

Do I need to quarantine if I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot 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 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. Otherwise, you can drop the person at the medical facility and drive straight back to your normal residence, without stopping in Queensland and then come back to pick them up. This means not stopping for fuel, food, coffee or rest breaks in Queensland. You can also stay in your car for the duration of an appointment if the person you are supporting is not required to stay overnight.

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 Health care 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 14 COVID (13 42 68 43) and press #3.

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, without stopping. This means not stopping for fuel, food, coffee or rest breaks in Queensland and only visiting the place of your appointment.

You must take the most direct route possible and minimise your interactions with the community. This means, filling up your car with fuel and packing food and drinks before entering Queensland. When taking rest breaks doing this at a rest stop where you won't need to exit your vehicle and interact with the community. You can exit your vehicle in case of an emergency.

If you are supporting or transporting someone to or from Queensland to receive health care you must remain in the vehicle or within the place where care is being received until the care is complete. Otherwise, you can drop the person at the medical facility and drive straight back to your normal residence, without stopping in Queensland and then come back to pick them up. This means not stopping for fuel, food, coffee or rest breaks in Queensland. You can also stay in your car for the duration of an appointment if the person you are supporting is not required to stay overnight.

If you are only coming to Queensland for a day and not staying overnight you will be required to apply for a H Border Declaration Pass. The H pass is for day admission, procedure or appointment for essential health care.

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.

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.

I am attending an appointment with a private health care provider, are there any extra steps I need to complete?

Any health care provider that is not a Queensland Health  provided service must provide you with a completed approved form for entering Queensland to receive essential health care (DOCX 72 kB).

Queensland residents at interstate boarding schools

My child wants to come home to Queensland from a hotspot. Do they need to quarantine?

The Chief Health Officer has issued a special class exemption to permit all students that call Queensland home, and an accompanying adult if required, to cross the border into Queensland and quarantine as follows.

Children returning from the ACT or a Local Government Area in New South Wales where there have been no active cases of COVID-19 in the last 4 weeks

If your child is coming from the ACT or from a local government area in New South Wales that has not had a case of COVID-19 in the last 4 weeks, your child can quarantine at your home or, if the home is unsuitable for quarantine, at a government-nominated hotel.

The student will be issued with a quarantine direction under the Public Health Act 2005, which is a legal notice. This means they can only leave the quarantine location for essential purposes such as to attend a doctor’s appointment. For students quarantining at home, they are not allowed to have visitors to the house but can mingle with immediate family who live in the place where they will home quarantine. You can read more about home quarantine on the Queensland Government website.

Where possible, the quarantining student/s should have access to separate bedroom and bathroom facilities.

Children returning from Victoria, or a Local Government Area in New South Wales where there have been active cases of COVID-19 in the last 4 weeks

If your child is coming from Victoria or a local government area in New South Wales that has had a COVID-19 case in the last 4 weeks, your child will need to quarantine with an accompanying adult in a hotel arranged by the government.

Hotel quarantine will be at your own expense. You can read more information about hotel quarantine and the cost on the Queensland Government website.

Information on active cases in New South Wales is available here.

I can’t afford to pay for hotel quarantine, what else can I do?

You will receive an invoice at the end of your quarantine which will give you 30 days to pay the amount due.

If you cannot pay for the quarantine or pay by the due date, other options such as a payment plan are also available on the Queensland Government website.

Another student from my child’s school will be in hotel quarantine. Can they visit each other as they have already been in contact?

If there is a hotel available to accommodate, up to four students may stay in the same room or in interconnecting rooms with a responsible adult. The students can be from different schools and can be a part of different households.

I think my child can home quarantine, do I need to tell anyone in Queensland Health, or can I pick my child up and just bring them home?

Because the Chief Health Officer has issued a class exemption for your child, you do not need to notify Queensland Health. However, hardcopy documentation will be required when crossing the border into Queensland. When crossing the border, you will be issued with a quarantine direction that will document the details of your child’s quarantine arrangement, including location and conditions.

What does my child need to bring with them when crossing the border into Queensland?

When travelling to Queensland, students and their parent or guardian are not required to complete the Queensland Border Declaration Pass. However, they must carry a hardcopy of the following documents:

• evidence of the school the child attends (such as a student ID card); and
• contact details for their parent or guardian; and
• evidence of their parent or guardian’s identity confirming their place of residence in Queensland (such as a driver’s licence); and
• the address of the quarantine location, if the children will be quarantining at the family home.

My child attends a boarding school in the ACT or a NSW local government area that has not had a case of COVID-19 in the last 4 weeks. Are they allowed to come home by transiting through Sydney Airport?

Yes, your child may come home by transiting through Sydney Airport. If an overnight stay in Sydney is required, it is recommended that they stay in a hotel within the airport precinct and remain in the hotel as much as reasonably practicable. Also, where possible, they should wear a face mask and practice good hand and respiratory hygiene during transit.

My child is allowed to home quarantine, do I have to quarantine?

If you go to collect your child from their boarding school and return on the same calendar day you will not be required to quarantine— please minimise time in the community while travelling.

If you are unable to collect your child and return within a day you will be required to quarantine at home too.

For anyone else in the household, they do not need to quarantine. They can still go to work or to other activities that you would normally do. However, no one in the household is allowed to have visitors while your child (and you if necessary) is in home quarantine.

Where possible, the quarantining student/s should have access to separate bedroom and bathroom facilities.

If your child or any member of your household feels unwell, you should seek immediate medical advice and go get a COVID test.

Do we have to get a COVID test done after home quarantine?

You do not need to get tested unless you develop symptoms and feel sick. Anyone in quarantine may leave to get tested.

My child will be in Queensland for more than 14 days. Do they have to quarantine the whole time?

No. Both hotel and home quarantine last for 14 days. After this time, your child has finished quarantine and can do activities such as visit friends, as long as they are following the public health directions that are in place. For example, gatherings of less than 10 if they are in an area where this is required, practise social distancing and good hygiene.

Are these quarantine arrangements only in place for the school holiday period?

No. The class exemption will extend beyond the school holidays and these quarantine arrangements will be in place for any return travel to Queensland during the school term and for the next holiday period.

Is my child allowed to leave quarantine to seek medical treatment or attend a medical appointment?

Yes. Your child may leave quarantine:

• to obtain essential medical care or medical supplies where alternative delivery arrangements are not reasonably practicable; or
• to obtain a COVID test; or
• to avoid injury or illness or escape a risk of harm; or
• in the event of an emergency situation.

More information about attending essential healthcare whilst in Quarantine can be found here: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/current-status/public-health-directions/border-restrictions/essential-health-care

Why are these quarantine arrangements available to these children?

For the vast majority of people entering Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot, quarantine outside of a government nominated hotel is not an appropriate option. However, this cohort of children has a unique set of characteristics that makes home quarantine viable:

• Only students attending boarding schools in the ACT or a New South Wales local government area with no active cases within the last 4 weeks are able to return and undertake home quarantine – i.e. they are returning to Queensland from very low risk communities.
• Boarding schools are controlled environments where each facility has been required by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to undertake facility-specific, systematic risk assessment, analysis and mitigation processes to manage the risk posed by COVID. It is unlikely that these students will be as mobile compared to other cohorts.
• There are very few Queenslanders who attend boarding school in Victoria, the ACT or New South Wales.
• This cohort consists primarily of minors, and therefore quarantining at home with their family will mitigate child safety and welfare risks.
• These students are required to travel to Queensland by the most direct route from their boarding school.
• This cohort will not be permitted to enter the community while in home quarantine, and it is anticipated that most will leave Queensland at the end of their quarantine to commence the next term of boarding school.