What you need to know about Qld’s new mandatory check-in app
The deadline for businesses to integrate to the Check in Qld app isn’t until May 1, but already 1.9m Queenslanders have downloaded and started using it. This is what you need to know.
QLD Coronavirus News
Don't miss out on the headlines from QLD Coronavirus News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A free check-in app about to become mandatory for thousands of Queensland businesses will be crucial to containing future COVID outbreaks, according to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
The deadline for businesses to integrate to the Check in Qld app isn’t until May 1, but already 1.9m Queenslanders have downloaded and started using it.
“Since going live in February more than 22.390 businesses have embraced it and got firmly behind this effort to keep Queenslanders safe,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“It has already proven a game-changer. Queensland Health contact tracers used it to immediately identify any close or casual contacts during the recent COVID-19 clusters.”
The Premier warned Queensland hospitality businesses to hurry and integrate the app and said now was “not the time to delay”.
“While the response has been great, I remind those hospitality businesses that haven’t already signed up to do so now,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“From May 1 it will be compulsory for all involved in this sector to be using (it).”
As of Friday, Queenslanders had scanned the app 10m times and more than 1000 businesses a day have been signing up recently.
Digital Economy Minister Leeanne Enoch said that the app was a great solution to contact tracing. She said it benefited those of all ages, including the elderly, who have in the past struggled to check in without smartphones.
“This is a safe and simple way for customers and staff to record their contact details and support businesses to comply with public health directions, keeping everyone safe,” she said. “One of the best features of the app is that you only need to enter your details once and the app remembers them for future check ins, including details of any dependents. For the customers who don’t have a smartphone or are unable to use the app, the Check in Qld app allows for business to use their own app to enter customers, or if you are with someone who has the app, they can check you in as a guest.” She encouraged all Queenslanders to download it.
Bleijie confirms LNP will ‘consider’ ditching $3.2m in Covid fines
The government will consider waiving $3.2m worth of outstanding Covid fines, Acting Premier Jarrod Bleijie has revealed.
Australian-first dual vaccine to win over the hesitant, compromised
A combined Covid-19 and influenza vaccine is being trialled in Queensland in the hope it will protect people who otherwise cannot have, or are hesitant about, another type.