- Updated Directions provide clarity over who can enter remote Aboriginal communities
- Access restricted to remote Aboriginal communities
- Exceptions for delivery of essential services, medical reasons, family or cultural reasons
- Directions protect the health and wellbeing of residents and limit the spread of COVID-19
The McGowan Government has updated its binding Directions that restrict access to remote Aboriginal communities, to provide further clarity and certainty about who can enter these communities.
The binding and enforceable Directions were released earlier this week, to protect the health and wellbeing of residents in remote Aboriginal communities in response to COVID-19.
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.
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.
The Directions will be supported by the development of 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 the Directions. The updated Directions are available at https://www.wa.gov.au/government/publications/remote-aboriginal-communities-directions
Comments attributed to Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
"It's crucial that we do everything we can to protect residents living in remote Aboriginal communities against the spread of COVID-19.
"The updated Directions provide further clarity around the restrictions on access to these communities, as well as the exceptions.
"We will continue to work with communities to ensure they are adequately informed of how the restrictions apply to them, as well as ensuring they continue to receive essential services and supplies."
Minister's office - 6552 5900
