On 14 May, two US Marines who arrived in Australia as part of the 2021 Marine Rotational Force - Darwin (MRF-D) on 9 May returned positive results for COVID-19 during initial screening at the commencement of their mandatory 14-day quarantine period.
The Marines were transferred to the NT Centre for National Resilience where they will continue to be monitored and complete their quarantine.
Due to the strict procedures put in place before the arrival of this year's MRF-D rotation, the Marines had no direct contact with the general community.
All US Marines are subject to strict screening and quarantine requirements prior to departure, and on arrival into, Australia. These include:
- presenting a negative COVID-19 PCR test 72 hours before departure for Australia.
- mandatory 14-day quarantine in secure facilities at Bladin Village.
- COVID-19 testing on arrival and before exiting their mandatory 14-day quarantine period.
- daily health checks that include screening for COVID-19 symptoms and mental health checks.
So far, approximately 1800 US Marines have arrived in Australia as part of this year's MRF-D rotation.
Defence is liaising closely with the Northern Territory Government on this matter following the extensive planning that occurred to enable a safe 2021 MRF-D rotation. Defence and NT Health have agreed to strict measures for managing MRF-D's arrival, quarantine and possible or positive cases of COVID-19. The 2021 MRF-D will continue to adhere to all current Northern Territory restrictions for mitigating COVID-19 risks. This year's rotation includes a comprehensive range of training activities, including humanitarian assistance, security operations and high-end live-fire exercises.
Link to NT Health Statement - https://coronavirus.nt.gov.au/updates/items/2021-05-15-positive-covid-19-case-update
Link to: Arrival of the 2021 Marine Rotational Force-Darwin / USFPI Page
