EXPLAINED: WFH push as strict indoor mask rules return for Qld

Queensland employers are being urged to return to work-from-home arrangements, as a strict indoor mask mandate comes back into play from Sunday. Here’s what you need to know.

Queensland employers are being urged to return to work-from-home arrangements where possible, as a strict indoor mask mandate comes back into play from Sunday.

Chief health officer John Gerrard on Saturday ordered the state to return to wearing masks in most indoor settings, from 1am Sunday, as a further 2266 new Covid cases were recorded.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said masks had been proven to slow the spread of the virus.

“Masks are a tried and true method to slow the spread of Covid,” the Premier said.

“Even though cases were expected it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do all we can to slow them down.

“We said there would be a time when masks return. The time is now.”

Masks are already required:

In supermarkets and shops

Public transport and rideshare

Airports and on planes

Cinemas and theatres

From 1am Sunday, January 2 mask will also be required:

In workplaces (unless it is unsafe to do so)

Pubs, clubs and cafes (except when seated)

Indoors stadiums and sports arenas (except when seated)

Libraries

Hairdressers and nail salons

Waiting rooms at a medical centre

Dr Gerrard also confirmed that staff and students at schools along with childcare and other education facilities will also be required to wear a mask.

“People have been wanting this and expecting this,” he said.

Ms Palaszczuk said access to vulnerable settings including aged care and hospitals is limited to people who have been fully vaccinated except in end of life, childbirth or emergencies.

The government is also considering further measures including the need to provide a negative test prior to entry to those places.

Originally published as EXPLAINED: WFH push as strict indoor mask rules return for Qld