Police officers now have powers under the Public Health Act to enforce measures to stop the spread of COVID-19.The new measures came into force yesterday, with some key changes made to the measures made by the Federal Government.The changes are as follows:
- Stay at home rule - All people must stay home unless they have a reasonable excuse (including shopping, working, exercising, medical or caring responsibilities, accessing social services, weddings and funerals). Taking a holiday in a community outside of yours is not a reasonable excuse.
- Two person gathering rule- Only two people can gather in a public place (unless they are members of the same household). There are exemptions for driving in a vehicle, work, transport, shops etc. This means that only two persons can exercise together unless it is a family group, or the people live together.
- Additional places that must close - outdoor gyms, playgrounds, skate parks.
Murray Police District commander Superintendent Paul Smith said the health crisis was ‘‘nothing like anything we’ve ever experienced, and I can understand members of our communities are anxious.‘‘But I want to assure you police are committed to using all the powers available to us to enforce all COVID-19 related public health orders and play our part in stopping the spread of this virus. ‘‘Police can now issue a Penalty Infringement Notice, or an on-the-spot fine, for the offence of not complying with a ministerial direction or a public health order. This on the spot fine is $1000 for individuals and $5000 for businesses. ‘‘I want to assure the community we will be using this power if required. This means if someone is ordered to self-isolate and they do not comply, or if people do not adhere to social distancing rules, police will respond and issue them with a fine. ‘‘This new power is in addition to the options that were already available to us - a person may also be issued with a Court Attendance Notice with a penalty of up to $11,000 or six months imprisonment if convicted.’’To report non-compliance with public health orders, phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit.WHAT IS CLOSED?
● Beauty and nails shops, massage (excluding health related).
● Real estate auctions and inspections.
● Amusement parks, arcades and play centres.
● Yoga, pilates and wellness centres.
● Pools and sporting activities.
● Galleries, libraries, community and recreation centres.
● Cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos and night clubs.
● Religious gatherings.
● Pubs, registered and licensed clubs (excluding bottle shops attached to these venues), hotels (excluding accommodation).
● Outdoor gyms, playgrounds, skate parks.
WHAT IS RESTRICTED?
● Strict social distancing rules, keeping 1.5m between yourself and others, apply in the following cases:
● Restaurants and cafes – takeway only, or home delivery.
● Hairdressers/barbers.
● Weddings – the couple, celebrant and witnesses only.
● Funerals – no more than 10 people.
● Outdoor food markets – as per state regulations.