Politics
Borders Update
Various media releases regarding Tasmanian border arrangements moving forward.
Media release – Peter Gutwein, Premier, 3 August 2020
Border update
Our number one priority through the coronavirus pandemic is the health, wellbeing and safety of Tasmanians.
While the steps we have taken have put us in a good place, we cannot for a second, become complacent. It is so important that we remain vigilant, and that we continue to stick to the rules to keep Tasmanians safe and secure.
We have taken our border restrictions very seriously, and as we have said, we continue to monitor and review the situation in other states on a daily basis.
That is why, based on health advice, given the uncertainty in Victoria right now and the impacts on other states, we will not be opening our borders to other states until at least 31 August.
This means, the changes to our border restrictions with other states including South Australia, Northern Territory and Western Australia that were due to commence from 7 August will not be occurring.
Nor will we be opening to other parts of the country, including QLD, ACT, NSW and Victoria post August 14 as previously indicated.
We will review our circumstances on a weekly basis and I will provide weekly updates as we continue to monitor what is occurring in other states.
As I’ve consistently said, I will not put Tasmanians at risk, and we will continue to make decisions that are safe, sensible, and in the best interest of our State.
I know these are challenging times, but we must continue to move forward safely and responsibly. I urge Tasmanians to continue to do the right thing-practice good hygiene, maintain appropriate social distancing and abide by the COVID-safety plans in place.
Media release – Cassy O’Connor MP | Greens Leader, 3 August 2020
Hear the Collective Sigh of Relief Across Tasmania
The vast majority of Tasmanians will be relieved the state’s tough border measures will be in place until at least the end of the month.
With COVID-19 ravaging Victoria and on the march again in NSW, along with evidence of community transmission in other states, the Premier has made the right call.
Our collective responsibility as islanders is to keep each other safe. We’ve shown we can do that since the early days of lockdown and so many people have made such huge sacrifices – from grieving families, to tireless health care workers, people who’ve lost their jobs, and businesses on the brink.
The Premier recognises all that sacrifice would be for nought if the virus is allowed to take hold here.
Mr Gutwein has done the right thing. Now isn’t the time to be taking any risks. There’s too much at stake.
Media release – Rebecca White MP, Labor Leader, 3 August 2020
Border announcement is understandable but business and workers will need ongoing support
Today’s announcement to keep Tasmania’s borders closed until at least the end of the month is understandable given the alarming situation unfolding intestate.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said she respects the public health advice and the desire to keep the community safe but also understands the impact today’s announcement will have on struggling businesses and families who were looking forward to seeing one another.
“Tasmania currently sits in a good position compared to other states across Australia when it comes to fighting the spread of COVID-19 in the community and we want it to remain that way,” Ms White said.
“We only need to look at the developing situation in Victoria to see how rapidly this virus spreads and how fast conditions can change.
“Keeping our state’s borders shut until at least the end of the month is an understandable decision, however support needs to be provided to local businesses and workers that will struggle as a result.
“I’ve been speaking with many local business owners during the period of this pandemic and understand the significant impact ongoing restrictions are having on their trade and employment, especially in hard hit industries like tourism and hospitality.
“The government needs to consider providing more assistance to affected businesses and their staff so they are able to stay afloat during this extended period of uncertainty.
“It’s also critical we maintain a robust system at our borders and we are again calling on the Government to introduce mandatory testing for everyone arriving from Victoria.
“We also need to ensure clear processes are in place for exemptions granted for essential workers and apply those standards to all workers who are granted exemptions, not just those from hot spots or Victoria.
“This is the best way we can continue to support Tasmanians through this pandemic and keep our state safe.”
Media release – Madeleine Ogilvie MP, Independent Member for Clark, 4 August 2020
LONGER TERM BORDERS CERTAINTY NEEDED FOR TASMANIAN BUSINESS
Madeleine Ogilvie MP, Independent Member for Clark today called for clarity to be provided on Tasmania’s borders until Christmas.
“Our small business owners are on the front line of the economic emergency. Let’s recognise that fact and reward their hard work by rolling in increased support,” said Ms Ogilvie.
“Sustainability funding delivered quarter by quarter for small business is essential during this phase. Lifting some restrictions will also help.
“We must deliver certainty and build business and consumer confidence. Businesses need to plan, and certainty around border closure timelines will help them to do that.
“Logically we need to be looking at keeping our borders closed through to December.
“People want tight control over our borders but also internal restrictions to be eased.
“We have the freedom to travel the State and support businesses in all regions. Let us lock in a longer closure so we can keep the support and momentum behind businesses going. If we are then able to open borders earlier, that would be a welcome step.
“I am proud of how Tasmanian businesses have responded during this time of crisis.
“Now is the time for recognition and reward.”