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Victoria introduces new traffic light system to check COVID-19 spread
A novel kind of a travel permit system, based on a traffic light configuration, has been launched in Victoria from Monday afternoon onwards for all inbound domestic travellers, laying down the regulations, according to which they now have to travel.
While announcing the new travel system, based on the traffic light approach, chief health officer declared various regions of Australia as green, orange or red, according to their exposure to COVID-19.
Depending on a state’s position, different restrictions are applicable for travellers from various regions.
The new traffic light structure came into effect from 5:59 PM on 11 January 2021.
Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews shared that by the time the vaccine got available, the authority would continue to react and respond to transforming situations.
According to Andrews, the new system is to support the entire battle with coronavirus, and also aiding the contact tracing team. He also said that there was an easy way to understand traffic light system and the travellers could also easily understand what the latest public health advice meant for them.
According to the system, the travellers need to share details of the places like where they are coming from, and where they are headed to?
How the system works?
- A red zone suggests that if a traveller has visited this designated area anytime during the past 14 days, he will not be permitted to enter Victoria via roadways.
People who manage to return to Victoria, either by a plane or water without any valid reason, will be needed to self-isolate for 14 days, or they have to pay the fine of $4,957. People who are from other state and are present at an airport or seaport in Victoria without a legitimate excuse or exemption will be fined $4,97, and will also be sent back to their destination on the very next flight.
- An orange zone suggests that a traveller will be allowed to submit an application for a permit and will require to go through a coronavirus test within interim 72 hours after he has reached Victoria. Also, the person will need to isolate both before and after the test, till he gets a negative result.
- A green zone will signify that a traveller will be allowed to apply for permission to enter Victoria.
As part of their permit applications, travellers will also be asked whether they have any COVID-19 symptom, and if they have been diagnosed with the disease or even have had a close contact with someone who has had the disease or even had visited the exposure sites.
Until this permission is granted, existing permits like transit and worker permits will stay valid.
