State of Emergency declared

Today the Government declared the country’s second ever State of National Emergency to curtail the spread of COVID-19.

Under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002, today’s State of National Emergency declaration allows the Director Civil Defence Emergency Management to direct and coordinate personnel, material and other resources, and provides access to other extra-ordinary powers that will support delivery of an effective and timely response to COVID-19.

While in force, the State of National Emergency will allow the Director and local controllers, as needed, to provide for the:

o        conservation and supply of food, fuel and other essential supplies

o        regulate land, water and air traffic

o        to close roads and public places

o        to evacuate any premises, including any public place

o        and if necessary, to exclude people or vehicles from any premises or place.

I think it’s important to note that this is precautionary, the Government does not expect to use the full extent of these measures but is utilising every tool at their disposal to our communities safe.