The Federal Court’s decision on the effectiveness of hard border restrictions in the fight against COVID-19 has been welcomed by Attorney-General, Yvette D’Ath.
Ms D’Ath said the court’s finding that Western Australia’s border restrictions were the most effective measure in keeping COVID-19 out vindicated Queensland’s stance on borders.
She said the court found a precautionary approach should be taken to decision-making about the measures required for the protection of the community.
“The Government has strong border restrictions in place to protect Queenslanders and this decision shows just how important they are,” Ms D’Ath said.
“The Federal Court found the risk of infectious people entering Western Australia posed a high probability of the virus being transmitted locally within the State, including a moderate probability of uncontrolled outbreaks.”
She said the ruling found that uncontrolled outbreaks included the risk of death and hospitalisation.
“In the worst-case scenario, the health consequences could be potentially catastrophic,” the Minister said.
Ms D’Ath said Queenslanders would not be lectured by businessman and politician, Clive Palmer on re-opening borders too soon — “a worrying proposal that’s been advocated by the Queensland Liberal National Party (LNP) at least 64 times”.
“The LNP’s dangerous policies pose a serious risk to the health of Queenslanders and to jobs and the State’s economy,” she said.
