Peter Gutwein,Premier
Keeping Tasmanians safe and secure during the coronavirus pandemic is our number one priority.
The current outbreak of the virus in North West Tasmania is very serious and we need to take every measure we can to contain it.
Accordingly, from today the "stay at home" order will now be heavily policed in the North West region.
These orders are currently being reviewed and will be strengthened, if necessary.
You should not be leaving your home unless it's absolutely necessary, such as to get supplies or go to work, if you can't work from home.
If you are out of your home, you should not be surprised if you are stopped and questioned about the purpose of your trip.
Road blocks and check points will be used if necessary, and will be manned by Tasmania police.
You will be turned around by police if you don't have a good reason to be travelling.
You also face the risk of a fine of up to $16,800 and up to six months in the prison for breaching this stay at home order.
This will not affect critical freight routes, however, I would urge all local essential business to consider utilising a local workforce to help minimise risk to their business and the broader community.
Regarding the potential exposure in aged care homes in the region, all residents and staff in the three homes are expected to be tested today with support by the Federal Government, and enhanced testing over and above what is currently available in the North West will be implemented today with the support of the Federal Government.
We also have the Federal Government's support with an Aged Care Surge Team on standby – which if required, can provide staffing at short notice for the facilities, should that be needed.
I would like to stress to those residents in the rest of Tasmania – the stay at home order applies to you too.
The message is clear.
Please, stay home and save lives.
