Strict new rules to kick in for those entering the NT as border closes

Visitors to the NT won’t be able to buy a coffee or exit their self isolation for 14 days after crossing the border under new rules to come into effect at 4pm.

Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker addresses the media regarding the closure of the NT’s borders to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Picture: Che Chorley

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VISITORS to the NT won’t be able to buy a coffee or buy groceries for 14 days after crossing the border.

The NT’s borders will close at 4pm on Tuesday March 24, meaning everyone who arrives in the Territory must be quarantined for 14 days to prevent the spread of coronavirus, unless for special exemptions.

NT Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker said on Tuesday police would be enforcing a $62,800 fine to those who didn't follow protocols.

“The simple message we are asking is for people to apply common sense,” he said.

“What we do know … is if we can mitigate the likelihood of human transfer we take (the) significant step of protecting the NT.

“For those that travel by road it means we are engaging with road houses and service stations along the way to try and ensure there is an approach you can undertake that maintains good social distances, good hygiene practices and minimises human contact.

“You will then be obliged to get to your end destination and self isolate there.

“That means you cannot leave to go and get a coffee, you cannot leave to go and purchase other items, you must self isolate and need to make arrangements to ensure you can self isolate for that period.”

The sign that will be placed at all major border crossings into the NT. Picture: Supplied

Freight drivers and FIFO workers will be exempt from the restrictions, however other regulations will put in place to ensure they do not transmit the virus.

“Everything that we’re putting in place will not interrupt our freight and supply chains. They are an imperative,” Mr Chalker said.

“To ensure the supply chains are underway, staff who’re involved in the delivery of products are able to enter … arrangements would have be made for them to have appropriate isolation and accommodation … then they can return to their normal business.

“Exemptions articulate the fact that … though you are exempt, we want you to follow very strict protocol in relation to social distancing and practising isolation.

“There is no reason for you to have physical contact with those you are meeting at the meeting point.”

FIFO workers may be put on a procedure which would mean they have next to no human contact while they are working.

Police will be physically on site at the Victoria Hwy, Stuart Hwy and Barkly Hwy from 4pm Tuesday to engage with those travelling by roads well as airports and seaports.

NT BORDER CONTROL: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

How will the NT borders be monitored when they are closed?

NT Police are setting up checkpoints on the main highways – Victoria, Stuart and Barkly – on or near the three borders with the Territory.

How many people will be involved?

NT Police will provide resources for a 24-hour presence. The efforts to keep Northern Territorians safe from COVID-19 will include support from the Australian Defence Force.

Will the measures include defence, AFP or other law enforcement groups?

Defence will have small teams operating in a support capacity on major roads. The ADF’s role will be to set up camps at the checkpoints and also provide medical assistance to conduct checks of people entering the Northern Territory. These checkpoints will be established by 4pm Tuesday, March 24. The AFP and ABF will also provide assistance at airports and sea ports.

What roads will be manned?

See above. Other roads into the Territory will be monitored using technology.

Do we have any clear idea of how police may monitor those who come across the border and are required to self-isolate?

Arrival cards will need to be completed by everyone arriving in the NT and people will need to provide details of where they will self-quarantine.