Legal action for group at East Coast campground under COVID-19 restrictions

A group of 10 campers is facing proceedings for entering a restricted area, as Tasmania Police warns those found flouting requirements in public places will face legal action.

A GROUP of 10 people will face legal action after entering a restricted area at an East Coast camp ground on Sunday.

It follows Tasmania Police conducting over 1300 compliance checks for COVID-19 restrictions between 6pm on March 25 and 3pm on Monday on people in quarantine across the state.

A number of non-compliance cases also remain under active investigation.

Police also conducted a number of checks of businesses and in public places across the state, including malls, shopping centres and beaches.

Police are being supported by personnel from Tasmania Fire Service, State Emergency Service and the Australian Defence Force and the checks are ongoing.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said overall he was pleased with the level of compliance so far.

“There have been very high levels of compliance and understanding of the requirements, but we continue to get reports of people flouting the requirements in some public places and it must be clear that this is not acceptable,” he said.

“Those required to isolate must fully adhere to the requirement and be aware that if they blatantly disregard these directions that police will initiate formal proceedings.”

Those entering Tasmania since March 21 have been given instructions at their arrival

points on what they are required to do and they must adhere to that direction.

Under the Emergency Management Act, there is a penalty of up to $16,800 up to three months’ jail for failing to comply.