Tasmania to reopen borders to 'low-risk' coronavirus states from end of the month

Travellers from South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory will be able to return to Tasmania from 26 October.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein. Source: AAP

Tasmania will reopen its borders to states and territories with low coronavirus risk in just over three weeks.

Travellers from South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory will be permitted to enter the state without quarantining from 26 October.

"As we move towards Christmas, Tasmanians [are] seeking to know if they will be able to visit and have visits from family and friends from interstate," Premier Peter Gutwein said on Friday. 

"It is important that we start moving towards welcoming back interstate visitors who play a vital role in growing our economy."
Tasmania won't reopen to Victoria. Mr Gutwein said NSW was "looking very positive as well", but said authorities would continue to monitor case numbers in the coming week before making a decision. 

The decision to label some states and territories "low-risk" was based on a number of factors, Mr Gutwein said, including the length of time they have gone with few or no COVID-19 cases.

But he said the decision could be wound back at any time if public health advice changed.
"If at any time the situation changes in these jurisdictions and the advice is that the risk is increasing or too high then we won't hesitate to change this decision," Mr Gutwein said. 

"The date of the 26 October will give Tasmanians certainty as they plan for the end of the year but also importantly provide a date for our airlines to work to, to ensure we have access to our state."
Tasmania's last COVID-19 case was more than 50 days ago. The state was the first jurisdiction to close its borders back in March.
With additional reporting by AAP. 

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your jurisdiction's restrictions on gathering limits. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.

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Please check the relevant guidelines for your state or territory: 


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Published 2 October 2020 2:57pm
Updated 2 October 2020 4:24pm
By Maani Truu



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