Who can come into Queensland?

From 12:01 pm (midday) 10 July 2020 anyone can enter Queensland unless they have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days. People who have 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 purposes. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home but will be required to quarantine in government provided accommodation at their own expense.

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

• have been overseas in last 14 days

• you have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days

• you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (if you are allowed to enter)

• you have COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days

• you have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.

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

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 COVID-19 or have had COVID-19 in the last 14 days

• have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.

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 and didn’t leave the airport

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

• 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 a legal obligation relating to shared parenting or child access

• 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

• 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 are allowed to accompany students who are minors

• are avoiding serious injury or escaping an immediate risk of serious harm

  • For example, you are escaping a risk of harm related to sexual or domestic and family violence

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 an 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; and

• commit to get tested for COVID-19 if you develop symptoms within 14 days of entering Queensland.

Are there any extra rules I need to be aware of if I am entering Queensland from hotspot to provide essential services?

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 social distancing whenever possible

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.

Can I still enter Queensland for essential purposes if I have been in a hotspot in the last 14 days?

No. The COVID-19 public health situation presented by hotspots creates imminent public health risks of a case entering Queensland. Therefore, increased restrictions have been introduced to protect Queenslanders.

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.

If you have been to a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days you must quarantine for 14 days, or as directed by an Emergency Officer, unless you are entering for an essential activity.

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.

All persons wanting to enter Queensland must apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass with the exception of people providing emergency services and maritime crew who are not disembarking the vessel.

I live just outside the Queensland border. Can I enter Queensland to visit family or friends?

The Direction permits people in border communities of New South Wales, South Australia and Northern Territory to cross the border. You will not be permitted to enter Queensland if you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days unless you are a Queensland resident, or entering for an essential purpose.

I am a Queensland resident and need to travel interstate for medical care/surgery. Will I need to quarantine for 14-days when I get home?

If you are a Queensland resident who has had to travel interstate for medical care, you will not need to self-quarantine when you return home, unless you have travelled to a COVID-19 hotspot or have COVID-19, symptoms of COVID-19 or known contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19.

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.

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

No you are not allowed to travel through a hotspot and enter Queensland.

Can I enter Queensland without quarantining if I enter the mainland on the Spirit of Tasmania?

Yes, you can enter Queensland without quarantining if you disembark from the ship and travel directly to an airport to fly to Queensland using pre-arranged private transport, without stopping or exiting the vehicle.

If you travel by road or rail through Victoria from the Spirit of Tasmania to enter Queensland, you must quarantine on arrival in Queensland.

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 overseas or 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.

Why can’t I transition through a hotspot if I do not leave my vehicle?

You will be required to take the long way around to avoid the hotspot. This will add to your journey but will help stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep you and others safe.

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 exceptional circumstances exist.

Questions about exemptions

Who is a classed as providing an essential activity?

People providing an essential activity or service in Queensland do not need to complete mandatory quarantine when entering Queensland from a COVID-19 hotspot. The below table outlines who these people include:

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

If you have applied for an exemption to enter Queensland, you should have received an email updating you on the revised Border Direction and may need to seek an updated exemption. If you are coming from a hotspot you may have to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation. You will have to pay for the cost of this accommodation.

Can I apply for an exemption from quarantine?

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

• they essential for the proper functioning of the State and they need to be physically present in Queensland; or

• other exceptional circumstances exist.

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 reasons. 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.

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

You may be able to apply for an exemption if exceptional circumstances exist. You will need to obtain this exemption before you can enter Queensland.

You can request an exemption here. You may need to provide evidence to support your request.

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.

I live interstate and need to travel to Queensland for medical care/surgery. Do I need to self-quarantine in Queensland before my surgery?

If you are coming to Queensland for medical care or surgery from Victoria, you will not be permitted to enter Queensland unless you have a Chief Health Officer exemption.

People traveling to Queensland from other states or territories for essential medical treatment can come to Queensland and do not need to self-quarantine, unless they:

• have been overseas in the last 14 days

• been in COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days (and are allowed to enter)

• had contact with a person who has COVID-19 in the last 14 days

• have COVID-19

• have COVID-19 symptoms

Questions about freight services

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

Yes. Workers providing transport, freight and logistics can enter Queensland. This includes food, goods for health services and pharmacies, and retail goods including goods for grocery stores and petrol stations. Any commercial passenger operations must only be transporting passengers that are permitted to enter Queensland. The transport of freight includes the commercial transport of livestock or other live animals such as beehives.

There are additional requirements for freight drivers entering Queensland from a hotspot including that they keep records of people they come into close contact with while in Queensland and that they practise social distancing wherever possible, including maintaining a distance of at least 1.5 metres from people and remain self-quarantined in their vehicle or accommodation as much as possible.

Do freight services need a Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

Yes, freight drivers do need a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

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.

Employers of FIFO workers are strongly advised by industry to have a  health plan (DOCX). 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.

I’m a FIFO worker coming from a hotspot do I have to quarantine?

FIFO workers can only enter Queensland from a hotspot if they are a specialist worker required to provide emergency services or continuity of government services, infrastructure or utilities critical to Queensland but only if:

• the services provided by the person cannot be obtained in Queensland; and

• the service must be provided without delay; and

• the person must be physically present in Queensland to provide the service or perform the duty.

  Example:  electricity and power, telecommunications, data, water supply, sewerage, sanitation and waste and recycling management.

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 employ FIFO workers. What do I need to do?

Employers of FIFO workers are strongly advised by industry to have a  health plan (DOCX). 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.

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 may be subject to enforcement, including an on the spot fine of $1334 or a or a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345.

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 Force 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 Border Declaration it is an offence punishable by a fine of $4,004 or a court-imposed penalty of up to $13,345.

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; and

  • 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.

Are international workers and backpackers considered to be seasonal workers?

Yes, if they are working in agriculture or commercial fisheries and travelling from place to place to attend work, they are seasonal workers.

What are the requirements for a seasonal worker entering Queensland?

If you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days you will not be permitted to enter Queensland for seasonal work unless you have been granted an exemption by the Chief Health Officer.

I employ, house or transport seasonal agriculture or commercial fisheries workers. What do I need to do?

Employers, accommodation providers or private transporters of seasonal workers will need to submit a health plan. The health plan must outline how you will conduct health screening and manage and prevent any potential transmission at the worksite, accommodation facility, while transporting seasonal workers and in the community. This is required by the Chief Health Officer’s Seasonal Workers Health Management Plans Direction.

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.

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 to present your Queensland Border Declaration Pass and photo ID.

What is the Queensland Border Declaration Pass and Border Declaration?

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?

• Where do you plan to stay while in Queensland?

• 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?

• 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

  • in the event you are not directed to quarantine at a hotel, details of where you plan to stay in Queensland?

• 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.

In addition, you will be asked 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 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?

Yes, you will need to reapply.

Why do I need to do it every 7 days?

To ensure the information being declared remains true and correct.

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 $1334.

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.

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 am not able to live independently can I quarantine in my home?

Yes. If you cannot live independently without ongoing or regular support due to significant health needs, you can quarantine in a private residence. You and your carer must travel directly to your residence and self-quarantine.

Do I need to apply for a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass or can I continue to use my current Queensland Border Declaration Pass?

From 10 July, you will need to apply for a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass due to the new information required under the Border Restrictions Direction (No. 8).

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 border declarations in hard copy for people to complete as they cross the border.

What do the different border pass categories mean?

There are three different border pass categories:

• G - for all people who have not been in a COVID-19 hotspot.

• S - for people claiming to provide essential services exemption entering from a hotspot

• Q - for people entering from a hotspot who are not claiming an exemption from quarantine.

I have an A/B Queensland Entry Pass, is this still valid?

No. You will need to apply for a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

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 disembarking a vessel

• emergency workers entering Queensland in the course of emergency work e.g. a paramedic driving an ambulance over the border with a patient with life threatening injuries.

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

No, those people arriving into Queensland from overseas will not have to complete a border declaration pass.

Questions about quarantine

Why are quarantine fees being charged?

The quarantine fee is proposed to reduce the financial burden of COVID-19 prevention measures on Queensland taxpayers. The total fees payable will contribute towards reimbursing the Queensland Government for some of the costs of providing the mandatory quarantine.

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

You will be required to book storage for your caravan prior to entering Queensland.

Can Queensland residents quarantine in their own homes?

No. 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 in Queensland you may be required to transport yourself to the government-nominated premises to complete your mandatory quarantine. If you arrive at the border in your own vehicle you can drive directly to the government-nominated premises without stopping. If you will be arriving with livestock or in a caravan you will need to arrange for the care of animals or storage of trailers or caravans prior to your arrival in Queensland.

If you fly into an airport, transport to the premises 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 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 Qld?

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 for the past 14 days. You will have to quarantine when you enter Queensland if you:

• have been overseas 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

• have COVID-19

• have had COVID-19 symptoms in the last 14 days.

I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to receive essential medical treatment can I leave quarantine to receive this treatment?

If you are an interstate resident you cannot enter Queensland from a hotspot to receive essential medical treatment unless you have an exemption from the Chief Health Officer.

If you a Queensland resident returning to Queensland from a hotspot you will be required to quarantine. You may leave quarantine to receive essential medical treatment. You must go directly to receive treatment without stopping and you must return straight back to your government organised quarantine accommodation after receiving treatment or care.

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 after receiving treatment or care.

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

You will not be allowed to enter Queensland. You will have to apply for an exemption from the Chief Health Officer in order to enter Queensland.

I’m coming to Queensland from a hotspot to complete a custody arrangement will I/my child have to quarantine?

Yes. If you are coming to Queensland to complete a court ordered custody arrangement you and your child will have to complete quarantine.

If you send your child by themselves they can complete the 14 days of quarantine at the home of their Queensland based parent or guardian.

If you are bringing your child to Queensland to be placed in the care of a Queensland based parent or guardian, you and your child can quarantine at their Queensland based parent/guardian’s home.

If you don’t leave the airport between arriving and departing Queensland, you do not need to 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.

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

If you decide you no longer want to enter 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 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 hotspot must be in government arranged accommodation. 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. If you are required to be accommodated for over 24-hours an invoice will be calculated based on the time spent.

You will not be charged a fee if you are in transit for less than 24 hours.

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 here.

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.

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. Details on how to arrange a payment plan will be on the invoice

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

Those eligible to apply for a fee waiver include:

• people who are experiencing financial hardship

• people who are vulnerable.

Financial hardship

You may be eligible for a fee waiver under the grounds of financial hardship. You must be an Australian citizen or a Permanent resident to apply for this waiver.

Eligibility is assessed against criteria including, but not exclusive to:

• An individual is unable to meet current financial obligations (e.g. home loan, immediate living expenses)

• Unemployment or on Jobkeeper/Jobseeker or another relevant Centrelink service or an Australia studying overseas

• Loss of a business entity, home or possessions due to COVID 19 or a natural disaster.

When applying under this category you will be asked to provide:

• Citizenship/residency documentation

• Bank letter or statutory declaration

• Centrelink statement

• Other relevant documentation. e.g. bills, rate notices, debt agreements, family court documents regarding financial obligations, funeral expenses, notice of impending legal actions, international student fees and eviction notices.

People who are vulnerable

You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you (or someone you are quarantining with) are considered a vulnerable person.

Eligibility is assessed against criteria including, but not exclusive to, persons who identify with the below:

• A child

• An individual aged 18 and above who may not be able to take care of themselves or is unable to protect themselves against harm or exploitation by reason of age, illness, trauma, or disability or any other reason

• Persons 70 years and older

• Persons 65 years and older with chronic medical conditions

• An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person who is 50 years and older with one or more chronic medical conditions.

• An individual who suffers from chronic medical conditions, immune system conditions and medical treatments that place a person at increased risk

• Mental health illness

• Refugee or humanitarian reasons

• Escaping domestic, family or sexual violence

• A carer for a person who may be considered as vulnerable

• Exceptional circumstances.

When applying for a fee waiver under this category a range of documents may assist in assessing eligibility, including (but not exclusive to):

• birth certificate

• medical certificates/documentation

• visa status

• police order

• statutory declaration

To apply for a quarantine fee waiver once you have received an invoice, complete the form here.

Will my travel insurance cover the quarantine fee?

Please contact your travel insurance company directly for more information.

Exceptions

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 here.

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 here.

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.

As well as accommodation staff, Health Liaison Officers are available on-site for support. People in quarantine 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.

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?

No. All rooms are pre-allocated. All attempts have been made by the Queensland Government to source suitable accommodation for quarantine purposes. While every attempt will be made to ensure the rooms meet the requirements of individuals.

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 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

What happens when I arrive in Queensland from overseas?

Anyone arriving in Queensland from overseas or from a declared hotspot must complete 14 days of mandatory quarantine. You will need to stay at government arranged accommodation unless you have received a quarantine exemption.

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

When you arrive in Queensland you will be:

• issued a Quarantine Direction Notice and Notice to Pay

• required to undertake a health screening; and

• transported to your arranged accommodation to quarantine.

At the end of your 14 day quarantine period, you will receive an invoice for the quarantine fee. Full fee details appear on the attached Notice of Pay. You may be eligible to apply for all or part of the quarantine fee to be waived. Payment plans are also available.

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 hotspot must go into mandatory quarantine in government arranged accommodation for 14 days in the city of their arrival.

If you have already served a 14 day quarantine period upon returning from overseas travel in another state or territory, you are not required to quarantine again in Queensland as long as you travel directly from the quarantine facility to Queensland.

If you stay in the city you have quarantined in and go into the community you may be required to do a further 14 days quarantine if there is a quarantine requirement in place for that location.

You will need to provide evidence that you have quarantined in your state or territory of arrival and you may need to provide evidence that you travelled directly from the place of quarantine to 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?

The COVID-19 test will be carried out by trained clinicians within your government arranged accommodation.

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.

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?

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, 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 COVID19 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.