Peter Gutwein,Premier
This Easter, the gloves are coming off.
Despite repeated pleas, it is clear that some people simply are not abiding by the law – which is, stay home unless you have a valid reason to go out, such as for essential supplies.
If you break this law, you risk being arrested and charged, and you could end with a fine of $16,800, or even time in prison.
This is not a game, it is deadly serious.
We now have an outbreak of the coronavirus in the North-West, which has shown just how quickly and aggressively the virus can spread.
And we must do everything we can to prevent that outbreak – or any other incidence of the virus in the state – from spreading.
Remember, it only took one person to cause an infection of more than 1 million people across the world.
Unfortunately, despite my warnings, over recent days we have been receiving anecdotal reports of people traveling to their shacks for Easter.
This is simply not on. It is putting everyone at risk.
That’s why I am asking anyone who has seen shack-goers turning up in the last few days, or over the coming days, to report this activity to the police on 131 444.
And that’s why, over coming days police will be undertaking a stay-at-home compliance blitz, right around the state.
Anyone flouting these laws and putting lives at risk will feel the full weight of the law.
So, do not go to your shack this Easter.
Do not travel out of your direct municipality unless it is essential.
Do not leave home unless it is essential.
Essential means:
- Going to work, if you can’t work from home
- Doing exercise, but keep it locally to your home – like a walk or jog, maybe a bike ride around your home
- Going to get essential supplies like food or medical supplies – but it doesn’t mean go every single day
- Caring for someone.
If you are out of your home, don’t be surprised if you are stopped by police and asked why.
Don’t look for loopholes. If in doubt, don’t do it.
