Bringing Tasmanians home

Peter Gutwein,Premier

The health and safety of Tasmanians remains our number one priority as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and move towards a more normal way of living.

With our vaccination program continuing to proceed well, it’s time to bring more Tasmanians home from New South Wales and Victoria.

From next Friday 24 September, we will commence a new 30 day trial, which will see people from regional New South Wales able to home quarantine for 14 days if they meet the following strict conditions:

  • Be fully vaccinated with 2 doses;
  • Have a negative COVID test before travelling; and
  • Have a suitable house to quarantine in, with no other occupants.

They will also be subject to testing during quarantine, and there will be enhanced compliance measures, including signage at their house, to protect those who may inadvertently arrive at the property for deliveries or other such purposes.

Additionally, from next Thursday 23 September, 108 additional rooms will become available at the Travelodge for returning Tasmanians to quarantine, and we will also be bringing on 100 more rooms in our international quarantine system at the IBIS for domestic quarantine for those people who don’t have a suitable premises.

This has been a very difficult time for many Tasmanians, with around 199 people on the waiting list due to hotel quarantine capacity being reached, and these measures will free up more space, allowing us to bring Tasmanians home.

Our border arrangements remain unchanged as a number of jurisdictions continue to manage their outbreaks. Further information can be found at www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au

In Tasmania, we remain COVID free and it’s testament to the work of all Tasmanians who have continued to follow public health advice and do the simple things to keep our community safe.

/Public Release. View in full here.