Queensland first to make emergency declarations in January

Queensland was the first to declare a public health emergency on January 29, 2020 in response to the global outbreak of coronavirus, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said today.

The Premier said the government strengthened the legislation when the parliament passed the Public Health (Declared Public Health Emergencies) Amendment Bill 2020 on February 6.

“Queensland acted early and strengthened the laws because public safety is paramount,” the Premier said.

“We have so far limited the spread of the virus and that’s because Queenslanders have been taking public health advice seriously.

“If we all keep listening to the advice of our medical experts, the virus will be easier to manage.

“That means basic things like washing hands, not kissing and hugging people and not shaking hands.

“If you’re sick, stay at home.

“If you’re worried you may have the corona virus, contact 13HEALTH or contact your GP.

“We need to stick together and think about everyone in the Queensland community including those who are particularly vulnerable.”

The Premier said police were continuing to check people who had been placed in quarantine to ensure they were complying with requirements.

Fines of up to $13,000 can be given to people who fail to comply with the conditions.