Strict new measures for remote communities to protect against coronavirus spread

GATES at the NT’s entry points is just one of the options Chief Minister Michael Gunner is considering as the NT Government continues to determine how to keep the spread of coronavirus out of the Territory

The Northern Territory will be able to stop people from entering or leaving all 76 remote Aboriginal communities, with the exception of medical emergencies and critical services, under strict new biosecurity measures. Picture: Marie Nirme/The Australian

• WHAT we know about the NT’s three COVID-19 cases
• OPINION: All non-essential travellers to the Territory should be quarantined for 14 days
• CORONAVIRUS crisis: ‘The NT should close its borders now,’ say Territorians

GATES at the NT’s entry points is just one of the options Chief Minister Michael Gunner is considering as the NT Government continues to determine how to keep the spread of coronavirus out of the Territory.

Mr Gunner told the NT News he would, over the weekend, work with police and Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker to determine how to limit travel between states.

He yesterday wrote to the premiers of South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia, who agreed to work on cross-border arrangements.

“I’ve said I’ll do whatever it takes to protect people and I meant it. That includes securing our borders,” he said.

“We can’t build a wall, but we can put in gates.

“Saving lives and saving jobs are my only focus right now, everything else can get in the bin.”

The Government’s current legal advice is that the Territory cannot completely stop interstate movement but can put in restrictions.

Mr Gunner said all options were on the table.

An announcement on Territory border control measures is expected next week.

It comes as Prime Minister Scott Morrison yesterday announced people would be stopped from entering or leaving all remote communities in the NT with the exception of medical emergencies and critical services under strict new biosecurity measures.

“The way this will work, is that states and territories will nominate prescribed areas, such as communities, in consultation with indigenous communities as an emergency requirement as determined under Biosecurity Act that will restrict persons from entering or leaving those prescribed areas,” he said.

Exceptions will be made for medical emergencies and the supply and maintenance of essential goods and services.

AMAZING NT News subscription offer: Only $1 for first 28 days

The Prime Minister also said the Federal Budget had been pushed back to October 2020, with states and territories also working towards October budgets.

This delay will be a big political win for the Territory Labor Government, which no longer has to hand down a devastating budget ahead of the NT election in August.

A spokesman from the Chief Minister’s office said there were no plans at this stage to push back the Territory election.

Mr Gunner said there was also a new limit of one person per four square metres for indoor gatherings under 100 people. He said the Government would support business to adapt to these changes. Businesses seeking advice are encouraged to call 1800 193 111.