Queensland’s new COVID-Safe check-in app is to become mandatory for most hospitality businesses across Queensland from 1 May to assist with the State’s contact tracing efforts.
According to the Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, the aim is to allow contact tracers to more readily access information at a critical time for the State’s public health response.
Ms Palaszczuk said that alongside testing, contact tracing was the most valuable tool to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community.
“Over the past 12 months, we have relied on our team of contact tracers to quickly identify and assist anyone who may have been exposed to the virus,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“So it is absolutely essential that our contact tracers have access to relevant, legible and timely information to do the important work to keep all Queenslanders safe. “
She said all Queenslanders with a smartphone should download the free Check In Qld app at the Google Play or Apple app stores, and enter their details once for all future check-ins at participating businesses.
“When we work together and do our part to comply with Public Health Directions, we can look forward to better days ahead, with eased restrictions and greater confidence while visiting venues,” the Premier said.
Chief Health Officer, Jeannette Young said the mandate was necessary, with a number of recent COVID-19 cases linked to popular hospitality venues.
“Since 27 March, we’ve seen dozens of restaurants and cafes added to our list of COVID-19 contact tracing locations, including as locations for close contacts,” Dr Young said.
“We all understand the threat the virus poses in confined, enclosed spaces — even when people are practicing social distancing and hand hygiene — and as we work to contain the highly-contagious UK variant, we must do everything possible to assist our health authorities,” she said.
Minister for Digital Economy, Leeanne Enoch said there had been strong support for the app so far with more than 1.2 million downloads.
