NSW Covid: QR codes could soon be scrapped in shops

It’s become routine to scan a code and fill in our details before entering a shop but QR check-in codes may soon be scrapped, according to a key NSW minister.

QR codes could be scrapped at low risk venues around NSW as the state’s Covid situation continues to improve.

The compulsory check-in codes which feature at every retailer and business would become voluntary in some low-risk settings such as shopping centres and retail if daily cases continue to fall and health advice permits it.

Shoppers or visitors to low-risk venues may not have to check-in using a QR code for much longer. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello flagged that check-in rules would potentially change throughout 2022, depending on any further Covid outbreaks in NSW.

But he said he believed QR code check-ins could be scrapped in low-risk areas.

“I understand the importance of using QR codes only during pandemic conditions … I am optimistic we can retire the use of QR codes in lower risk settings in the near future following guidance from health,“ Mr Dominello said.

Victor Dominello says NSW is trying to strike a balance between community safety and freedoms. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Adam Yip

He added that higher risk venues such as hospitals and aged care, which have previously been identified as vulnerable areas by officials, would continue to use QR code check-ins “for the foreseeable future”.

“NSW’s strength during the pandemic has been its ability to strike a balance between community safety and enjoying freedoms. We must maintain our agile mindset going forward,“ Mr Dominello said.

NSW’s first-dose vaccination rate is approaching 95 per cent. Picture: NCA NewsWire/Bianca De Marchi

“A proportionate response will provide the community with confidence and result in higher compliance.”

It comes as NSW recorded 216 Covid cases and three deaths on Friday, with vaccination rates currently sitting at 94.3 per cent first dose and 91.5 per cent fully vaccinated.

NSW Health confirmed the suitability of QR check-in codes was being re-evaluated.

“Thousands of contacts of cases have been identified across NSW thanks to their check-in data, which is extremely important, especially for higher risk venues,” a NSW Health spokesman said.

“NSW Health continues to review and adapt its approach to contact tracing … the community will be advised of any changes to the current settings.”