The NLC has received a number of queries concerning travel into and out of the Lock Out (Darwin) and Lock Down (Katherine) areas, which came into effect from 12:01am, 5 November 2021 for 72 hours.
People who have returned to their communities after being in Darwin or Katherine over the past week or so have been exposed to the same risk as people living in Katherine and Darwin and should wear masks and observe social distancing.
This is particularly important given this is the first case of community transmission and there are now two cases. If anyone develops any symptoms they should immediately contact their clinic or doctor.
NLC and community members have raised a number of questions, including:
Can residents return from Darwin to their communities outside of Darwin?
Yes, however anyone wanting to leave the Darwin Lock Out area will need to have proof of being double vaccinated. This could be an issue if you don’t have your certificate with you.
Can a resident of a community outside of Darwin Lock Out area, who has been in somewhere on business in the NT, fly into Darwin and then drive home?
Yes if you are returning to your place of residence, however you will need to have proof of being double vaccinated. This could be an issue if you don’t have your certificate with you.
Can community-based essential workers travel to Darwin for the weekend and then return to a community? Travel would be for recreational purposes and not official business or work-related.
No. You will not be permitted to travel past the check point heading into Darwin, you will be turned around. You can only travel into Darwin if you are returning to your primary place of residence or if it is for one of the essential reasons.
Essential Workers from a community – who have, for example, travelled to Darwin for training or other purposes prior to Lock Out – can they return to go to work at the community? These may be workers expecting to return to work on Monday.
Yes, as Essential Workers you can, but you will need to have proof of being double vaccinated. This could be an issue if you don’t have your certificate with you.
Can holders of NLC Essential Worker permits travel outside of Darwin and Katherine?
Only fully vaccinated essential workers are allowed to leave those areas for work and they will need to have proof of being double vaccinated.
General guidance for those wishing to travel in/out of the Darwin Lock Out and Katherine Lock Down zones.
Travel is restricted to 5 essential reasons:
1. Medical treatment, including COVID testing or vaccination;
2. For essential goods and services, like groceries and medications;
3. For work that is considered essential and can’t be done at home;
4. For one hour of outdoor exercise a day within 5km from your home with one other person or people from your house; or
5. To provide care and support to a family member or person who cannot support themselves.
