South Australia’s pandemic control measures, including the requirement for QR Code check-ins at retail outlets, will be eased thanks to the state’s quick and decisive response to the global omicron outbreak.
From 12.01am 29 January, South Australian businesses will be able to have 50% capacity indoors, helping our hospitality industry get more people through their doors.
Premier Steven Marshall said the easing of restrictions was the next phase in South Australia’s strong omicron response plan to mitigate the health impacts of the pandemic threat while also protecting local jobs.
“The safe easing of these restrictions now is possible because of South Australia’s strong and decisive response to the global omicron outbreak, particularly the fast action we took on Boxing Day to slow the spread and flatten the curve,” Premier Marshall said.
“I’ve said since day one of this pandemic, I don’t want to leave a restriction in place one day longer than it needs to be.
“It’s no accident that SA has the fastest growing economy in the nation, our unemployment rates are at record lows and we have been named the most liveable place in the nation.
“However, we know we must continue to protect jobs and support SA businesses to get through this difficult time so they can help drive our economic forward.
“South Australians are rolling up in record numbers to get their booster vaccination and I urge everyone to get their vaccination as soon as possible to help enable further restrictions to be eased as soon as safely possible.”
Premier Steven Marshall said QR check-in would no longer be needed for general retail but would remain in use at high-risk locations such as aged care and health facilities.
“I want to thank South Australians for their check-in efforts and I am heartened we are now in a position to safely phase out its use at retail outlets.
“The end of QR check-ins at retail outlets will be a welcome relief for many and another step towards the COVID dawn.”
Premier Marshall also today announced elective surgery will also begin to be recommenced in a staged manner, beginning with paediatrics from tomorrow.
“We made the decision to temporarily limit non-urgent elective surgeries to ensure urgent surgery was able to proceed and also ensure capacity in our system during the omicron wave.
“This temporary pause was to ensure we would be prepared for any hospital surge and would have extra resources available if we needed it, but we have always said throughout the pandemic that we do not want to keep restrictions in place any longer than they need to be.
“With our hospitalisation numbers beginning to stabilise, now is the right time to gradually recommence elective surgeries in South Australia, with children our first and utmost priority.
“I want to acknowledge the private hospital sector for their contribution to the COVID-19 response in South Australia during this period with making available additional beds and staff and their support in our vaccination efforts.”
“We will continue to monitor other restrictions in the coming weeks with the hope to ease more restrictions as soon as it’s safe to do so.”
Premier Marshall said the eased density limits would be followed shortly by a significant business support package.
“We have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the business community since the start of the pandemic and we will continue to support these vital sectors during these challenging times.
“I know how tough it has been for some businesses and we will be releasing another support package shortly.”
