The Commissioner of Police has announced new Directions to restrict access to remote Aboriginal communities during the COVID-19 outbreak, with fines of up to $50,000 for those who don’t comply.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Ben Wyatt said the binding and enforceable Directions were aimed at protecting the health and wellbeing of residents in remote Aboriginal communities.
“The Directions have now been reviewed and updated to ensure they limit the spread of COVID-19, while ensuring the ongoing supply of essential services and supplies,” Mr Wyatt said.
“Under the updated Directions, a person can only enter or remain on the land or waters if they are returning to the community where they normally reside or work; for family and cultural purposes; to provide or access essential or human services or supplies; in an emergency, or if authorised by the Police Commissioner or an authorised officer.”
He said the Directions would be supported by Remote Community Pandemic Plans, developed in partnership with community leaders.
“They are enforceable, and fines of up to $50,000 will apply to those who breach them,” Mr Wyatt said.
“The updated Directions provide further clarity around the restrictions on access to these communities, as well as the exceptions.”
He said his Department would continue to work with communities to ensure they were adequately informed of how the restrictions applied to them, as well as ensuring they continued to receive essential services and supplies during the restrictions.
The 9-page Directions can be accessed at this PS News link.
