April 1, 2020
Queensland’s border restrictions will be tightened across the State from Friday to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The State Government has announced that anyone who is not a Queensland resident, or considered exempt from the restrictions, will not be able to enter Queensland from 12.01am on April 3.
People with an exemption MUST have a border pass prior to crossing the border; if they don’t have a border pass, they will be turned around.
However, freight transport services are exempt and will be allowed through without a border pass permit.
Penalties may apply to any non-Queensland resident without an exemption who enters the State.
The restrictions will replace the current arrangements which enable people to cross the border provided they self-quarantine for 14 days.
Extra barriers will be erected in the streets of Coolangatta to further enforce border controls.
Police Minister Mark Ryan said strengthening border crossings and reducing the number of people travelling to Queensland would help in minimising the spread of the virus.
“Now is not the time to be travelling interstate unnecessarily,” Minister Ryan said.
“Unless you are a Queensland resident or have an exemption such as you work here or are required to travel for medical reasons, or are involved in freight transportation, you will be turned away.
“We are giving people plenty of warning about the stronger border controls that are being put in place.
“We are doing this in the interests of community safety.”
Since Queensland implemented border restrictions on March 25, 19,760 vehicles have been intercepted and police have issued 1451 quarantine orders to people crossing the border.
Commissioner Katarina Carroll said police were appreciative of the co-operation shown by the majority of motorists during the border crossing process.
“We know the border controls have caused some delays on the roads, however, we are very grateful for the majority of drivers who have been cooperative and followed police directions,” Commissioner Carroll said.
“The stronger measures will reduce the need for police to conduct follow-up quarantine checks for those who are directed to self-isolate when crossing the border.
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