Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Health
When it comes to COVID-19, the Tasmanian Government has followed public health advice at every step and we will continue to do so.
As part of our efforts to ensure Tasmanians are as informed as possible about coronavirus, our Public Health Hotline has proven itself as an essential resource during the pandemic.
Now employing more than 100 Tasmanians, it continues to support the community with information and assist with vaccination or testing bookings.
The Public Health Hotline has been a vital asset in our fight against COVID-19 and our call-takers deal with everything from people seeking information around restrictions to people reporting that they have been in COVID-19 hotspots or in contact with confirmed cases.
In many cases, the Public Health Hotline is also the first thing people reach out to for information.
Whether it is to check how many people they can have at their home for Christmas or to book a COVID-19 test or vaccination – the hotline is very much a one-stop shop.
While we also have a comprehensive COVID-19 website, we recognise that there are times where people want or need to talk to someone to help them navigate what can be complex information.
This is why the hotline and its team of dedicated call-takers are ready to help.
I appreciate that many people will be feeling anxious about the opening of our borders on Wednesday, and that's only natural - particularly among those who are more vulnerable such as our elderly - and our Public Health Hotline is more ready than ever to assist Tasmanians.
Our hotline call centre is based in Hobart and Tasmanians can be assured that every call is answered by a Tasmanian.
The hotline operates 8am to 7pm Monday through Saturday, and 8am to 4pm Sunday – with capacity increased if high demand is anticipated.
During high-demand periods such as today, not all calls can be answered straight away, however, the hotline staff will do everything they can to ensure you get the information you need as quickly as possible.
We would ask all callers to remember to be patient when calling the hotline and bear in mind that the person taking your call is there to help as best, they can.
The Public Health Hotline can be contacted on 1800 671 738.
