COVID-19 update: Victoria introduces pandemic reforms, Queensland to welcome international students again

This is your update on the Coronavirus in Australia for 26 October 2021.

Wanafunzi watembea katika chuo cha Queensland mjini Brisbane.

Wanafunzi watembea katika chuo cha Queensland mjini Brisbane. Source: Getty Images


  • Victoria introduces new public health reforms for pandemic situation
  • Queensland announces plans for international students
  • NT aims for a ‘no quarantine policy’

Victoria

Victoria is introducing new pandemic laws to parliament as the state records 1,510 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 and four deaths.

The premier would be able to declare a pandemic after considering the advice of chief health officers and the public health team.

State Health Minister Martin Foley said the laws will replace the current framework where state of emergency arrangements needs to be reviewed and extended by the minister every four weeks. 

A new concessional scheme for fines was also announced, where people suffering from financial hardships can apply to have their fine amounts reduced.

Victoria is looking forward to reopening on Friday, October 29 when the state is expected to hit 80 per cent vaccination target.

Queensland

Premier Anastasia Palaszczuk has announced that international students will be able to return to the state in 2022, as the state recorded two new locally acquired cases – both considered low risk.

New South Wales

New South Wales recorded 282 new locally acquired cases and one death.

The state has now fully vaccinated 85 per cent of its over-16 population.

Find a  near you.

Last 24 hours around Australia

  • ACT has recorded 12 new coronavirus cases.
  • Northern Territory aims to have a ‘no quarantine’ policy for fully vaccinated people from January 18.

Quarantine, travel, testing clinics and pandemic disaster payment

Quarantine and testing requirements are managed and enforced by state and territory governments:

If you want to travel overseas, you may be able to apply online for an exemption.  for more information about the conditions to leave Australia. There are temporary measures for international flights that are regularly reviewed by the government and updated on the  website.



Visit the translated resources published by NSW Multicultural Health Communication Service:


Testing clinics in each state and territory:

 
 

Pandemic disaster payment information in each state and territory:

 
 

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3 min read
Published 26 October 2021 12:57pm
Updated 8 February 2023 3:07pm
By SBS/ALC Content
Source: SBS


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