By Juliano Oliveira
The Queensland Government has decided to extend its border zone with New South Wales as of 1 October.
The local areas of Byron Shire, Ballina Shire, City of Lismore, Richmond Valley (Casino, Evans Head), and Glen Innes Severn Shire will be added to the border zone.
“So many residents of Northern New South Wales get their services from Queensland, and this will allow them to return to supporting Queensland businesses,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.
“Thanks to our health response and falling numbers of the virus, we can now take a gradual approach to easing these restrictions.”
In October, residents of the approved areas will be able to access the entire Queensland.
Deputy Premier and Health Minister Steven Miles said the state is one of the safest places in the world right now.
“Because of this strong health response, and that puts us in the best position to deliver Queensland’s economic recovery plan.”
Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said the border zone expansion was part of Queensland Health’s end-of-month assessment of COVID-19 protection measures.
“This expansion means border residents in these new areas can cross the border for any purpose,” Dr Young said.
“Of course, if we suddenly see cases in Northern New South Wales before next Wednesday, we will not put these measures in place, but I am not expecting that,” Dr Young said.