Families to be reunited as Tasmania opens borders to ‘low-risk’ jurisdictions

As Tasmania officially opens up to ‘low-risk’ jurisdictions from today, Premier Peter Gutwein has hinted NSW could be next.

Today’s the day for many Australian families and friends to reconnect as Tasmania opens to “low-risk” jurisdictions.

As the state’s borders officially reopened to all states and territories, except for Victoria and NSW, since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Premier Peter Gutwein said it marked “a very important day” for the state.

He encouraged all Tasmanians to welcome visitors while remaining COVID-19 safe.

Premier Peter Gutwein (right) at Hobart Airport alongside Senator Jonno Duniam and Tourism Tasmania CEO John Fitzgerald. Picture: Zak Simmonds

“We’re ready, we’re safe, we're prepared and can now start to welcome families back from low-risk jurisdictions and open for businesses,” Mr Gutwein said.

“I know the most difficult thing for many Tasmanians is not being able to see members of their family and friends who’ve been interstate.

“From here on, we need to make sure we stay on top of COVID-19 and accept the work we’ve done has made Tasmania a safe place, and based on public health advice, WA, the NT, SA, Queensland and the ACT are just as safe.

“Tasmanians can be comforted we had the necessary processes and procedures in place to ensure we can deal with a rapid response should COVID-19 bubble up here in the state.”

Anyone looking to enter Tasmania needs to register their travel via the Tas E-Travel online system at least three days prior to arriving.

Captain Zac Borromeo and chief pilot Malcolm Sharp at Hobart Airport. Picture: Zak Simmonds

NSW residents need to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival, while Victorians need to apply for entry and self-isolate for two weeks in medi-hotels if approved.

“I’ll have more to say on NSW in coming days. They have managed the virus very well, but again, I’ll be guided by public health advice,” Mr Gutwein said.

“It was pleasing to see that Victoria again had no new cases. They’ve been the most affected state out of the country, but it appears they're getting on top of this as well.”

Mr Gutwein said despite the borders opening to other jurisdictions, the state’s current restrictions would “stay in place for some time”.

Hobart Airport. Picture: Yoav Daniel Bar-Ness

At present, the one person per 2sq m rule applies to businesses including hotels, pubs, cafes and restaurants, and a maximum of 250 people are allowed indoors at non-residential premises.

While standing activities, like darts, pool, eight-ball, snooker and karaoke are allowed in licensed venues, patrons need to be seated while consuming alcohol.

Dancing is also not permitted at venues where food or alcohol is consumed.

Gatherings at home have a maximum of 20 people at one time, but that number doesn't include residents living at that address.