The Queensland Government has ushered in new measures to keep ‘Queenslanders safe’ in venues from 17 December.
Patrons will need to be double vaccinated to visit pubs, clubs and cafes and provide proof of their vaccination status to staff during the check-in process.
The rules have come into place days after the border was lifted, which has seen locals and tourists flock to the state.
Minister for Health Yvette D’Ath said venues will be required to take all reasonable steps to comply with the Public Health and Social Measures Direction.
“That means hospitality and entertainment venues will be asking customers for proof of vaccination as they enter the premises or when they order,” said Minister D’Ath.
People who do not comply with the rules will face penalties including $1,378 fines.
Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the force is prepared to take action should businesses fail to adhere to the new measures.
“We already have a sense that there are some businesses that won’t comply, so we’re geared up for that,” Commissioner Carroll told the Brisbane Times.
Businesses face fines of more than $6,000 for failing to stick to the rules, with Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk warning there will be random compliance checks taking place.
“If they are not abiding by the rules, they are putting the whole state at risk,” she said. “So people know that there are heavy fines associated if you do not do the right thing.”
The government has also launched the Be Kind at Check In Time campaign, which urges patrons to treat staff with respect as businesses continue to navigate the pandemic.
TAFE Queensland has a free online course for business owners on the new measures and how to implement them.
