Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

“Smiles Are Back” Mask Mandate Scrapped For Most Indoor Settings

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the major easing of COVID restrictions last week, including the state-wide mask mandate which will no longer be required in most indoor settings.

Many workplaces, schools, shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs were thrilled with the news last week that mask mandates were being removed and people could enter their establishments mask-free from 6pm on Friday March 4.

Masks will still be required on public transport and rideshares, as well as airports, prisons, and disability and aged care settings.

Ms Palaszczuk said she was making the announcement with “cautious optimism” with the Queensland government believing that the number of hospitalisations and infections has now peaked.

"These numbers are coming down as we come off the wave, " Ms Palaszczuk told parliament.

Both Ms Palaszczuk and Health Minister Yvette D'Ath said that the vulnerable members of the community should continue wearing masks, and everyone should carry a mask in places where they cannot socially distance.

The Premier also announced that density limits would be scrapped for weddings, funerals, homes, food courts, hairdressers, gyms, and universities.

The Premier’s daily COVID press conferences will also end from the first week of March.

"This is all about getting our lives back to a new normal,” she said.

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