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 a person in Queensland or to comply with a court order. Queensland residents who have been in a COVID-19 hotspot can return home 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.

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

No, the Northern Territory and South Australia are not declared as a 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.

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
• you were in Melbourne Tullamarine airport for the sole purpose of transiting and didn’t leave the airport.

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, unless you flew out of Melbourne Tullamarine airport
• 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 Queensland border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in New South Wales
• you are a New South Wales border zone resident who travelled outside the border zone in either Queensland or New South Wales
• 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 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, excluding Melbourne Tullamarine 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 medical care, or to provide support to a person receiving essential medical care.

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 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.

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 unless you are entering for an essential activity and were in the COVID-19 hotspot to perform an essential activity. If you were not performing an essential activity in the COVID-19 hotpot you will have 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 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 medical 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 medical care. If you are a border zone resident who received medical care inside the border zone you will not have to quarantine. You do not have to quarantine if you received medical 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?

No. Returning boarding school students have to quarantine at a place directed by an emergency officer. Boarding school students may be able to complete their quarantine at their boarding school if there is enough space for them to be isolated from other students as much as possible.

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 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 at government arranged accommodation at your own expense when you come home by air.

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 maps. 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 Queensland. If a New South Wales resident travels outside of the border zone in New South Wales they will not be permitted to enter Queensland for 14 days.

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 Tweed Shire, 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 maps.

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 Queensland. If a New South Wales resident travels outside of the border zone in New South Wales they will not be permitted to enter Queensland for 14 days.

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 maps.

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 to 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 maps.

I’m a border zone resident who usually receives regular medical treatment 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 medical treatment across the border, you can cross the border to receive medical treatment 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. The border restrictions do not prevent anyone from receiving essential medical care.

For example, if you are a New South Wales 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 maps.

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 maps.

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.

All persons wanting to enter Queensland must apply for a Queensland Border Declaration Pass.

View the border zone maps.

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 ride share.

View the border zone maps.

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.

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.

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 for work anywhere in Queensland.

I live in Brisbane. Can I travel to do construction work in the New South Wales border zone?

Yes. A construction worker can travel to the work in the New South Wales border zone from anywhere in Queensland.

Questions about transferring through a hotspot

Can I fly from Sydney to Coolangatta and then drive to my residence in northern New South Wales?

Yes, you can fly from Sydney to Coolangatta and drive to your home in northern New South Wales.

If you have been in a COVID-19 hotspot within the last 14 days  you 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. 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 expense.

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. However, if your layover was at Melbourne Tullamarine airport you will be required to quarantine for 14 days in government arranged accommodation at your own expense when you arrive.

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 medical 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.

I’m currently in New South Wales (in an area that is not a declared hotspot) can I drive home to Queensland after Saturday 8 August?

No.  You must drive home before the border closes at 1:00 am on Saturday 8 August. After this time, you will only be able to fly to Queensland.

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 medical 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 after 1:00 am 8 August?

You will have to arrange for storage of your car at your own expense. From 1:00 am 8 August You can only enter Queensland from a hotspot via air.

Questions about exemptions

Who is classed as performing an 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. The below table outlines who these people include:

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

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 will be required to confirm that you have specialist skills required in Queensland.

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 via: https://healthserviceportal.health.qld.gov.au/hdsp

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

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

Exemptions will only be granted in very rare and exceptional circumstances.

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 a government hotel? 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. You may be granted permission to leave quarantine to attend a funeral if exceptional circumstances exist.

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.

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.

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 a COVID-19 hotspot, you will need to quarantine at government arranged accommodation at your own expense. You may be eligible for a fee waiver.

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.

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 their Queensland for any purpose.

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 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.

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 fright transported via both road and rail. 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
• practise social distancing wherever possible, including maintaining a distance of at least 1.5 metres from people
• remain isolated in their vehicle or accommodation as much as possible until they depart Queensland, or for 14 days (whichever is shorter)

Drivers transporting freight should remain isolated from the general public in their vehicle or accommodation as much as possible until they depart Queensland.

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.

FIFO workers who live in a hotspot will only be permitted to enter Queensland for work if they meet the criteria of a specialist worker. A specialist worker needs to have their status as a specialist worker approved by the Chief Health Officer. 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.

A specialist worker can be employed to provide a service in the following industries or sectors essential to the continuing operation of the State:

• construction, including construction of transport infrastructure
• manufacturing
• resources, as a critical resources sector employee
• energy
• agribusiness or commercial fishing
• emergency services
• continuity of critical government or government funded services, infrastructure, or utilities.

Examples of specialist workers include people employed to ensure continuity of electricity and power, telecommunications, data, transport infrastructure, water supply, sewerage, sanitation and waste and recycling management, petroleum, gas mining and resource operations and farming and agricultural operations.

A specialist worker must be able to prove that:

• the services they provide cannot reasonably be provided by someone in Queensland
• the services must be provided without delay
• they need to be physically present in Queensland to provide the service or perform the duty
• they are employed by a company or service provider that has a health plan to manage preventing the transmission 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 who can provide evidence of the following:

• that they are specialist worker, with evidence in a form approved by the Chief Health Officer
• 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.

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 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 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’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 hotspot will be able to enter Queensland by road or air if they have not been in a COVID-19 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 $1334, 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 $4,004, 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; 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.

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
  • been a cleared case of 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 $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.

I already have a border pass do I need to apply for a new one after 1:00 am on Saturday 8 August?

Yes. Everyone will be required to complete a new Queensland Border Declaration Pass if entering after 1:00 am on Saturday 8 August

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 five 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

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.

• 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?

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

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.

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 or New South Wales for the past 14 days. You will only 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?

Yes. You can enter Queensland from a hotspot to receive essential medical treatment. A support person can enter Queensland with you. You will be required to quarantine at your own expense at government arranged accommodation but, you will be able 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 arranged accommodation after receiving treatment or care. Police at your place of quarantine will be able to let you know about the requirements for leaving quarantine.

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 a custody arrangement will I/my child have to quarantine?

Yes. If you are coming to Queensland with your child to complete a court ordered shared parenting or child contact arrangement 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 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 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. 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 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.

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 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.

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 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

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 arranged 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 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, a person moving to Queensland 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 give written evidence from a government authority that:

• you completed quarantine
• you had a negative COVID-19 test after day 10 of your quarantine
• you went 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
• you did not fly out of the Melbourne Tullamarine airport—if you did, you will be required to complete another 14 days quarantine upon arrival into Queensland.

If you completed mandatory government quarantine in another State or Territory and cannot produce the above evidence, you must either quarantine in government nominated accommodation in Queensland for 14 days, or until you receive a negative COVID-19 test result.

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?

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 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.