In Parliament today The Nationals WA have asked the Premier to clarify when the Government’s proposed travel restriction direction will be published and provide further information about the schedule of exemptions and application process.
Leader Mia Davies said restrictions on inter-regional movements were due to commence at midnight tonight and had left people living and working in and between regions confused and frustrated.
“Just hours before the directive comes into force everyone who will be travelling between regions for legitimate purposes is unsure about the rules and how they will be impacted,” Ms Davies said.
“We support the principle of stamping out non-essential travel to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and we understand the Government is dealing with rapidly changing circumstances but this will have a significant impact on many people.
“It has created uncertainty for those in the business community who may offer mobile services, have to travel across boundaries to deliver or pick-up goods and whether they will be permitted through the checkpoints or past mobile police patrols on the State’s roads.
“It has created anxiety for those that have co-parenting arrangements, work for themselves and don’t have an employer to vouch for their movement, and those that are responsible for aged or vulnerable family members but live in a different region.”
Ms Davies said clarity on how the restrictions will be policed, and how people apply for exemptions would reduce the anxiety and concern in the community.
“Along with the schedule of exemptions there also needs to be clear explanations about what documentation or burden of proof is needed to show travellers satisfy exemption criteria,” she said.
“While there has been a suggestion that an employee wanting to cross regional borders needs a letter from their employer it would be welcomed if a template outlining the required details could also be available on the government website.
“Considering the restrictions might last for some time it is important individuals, businesses and workers have the ability to plan their essential movements.
“With so much anxiety already in the community relating to COVID-19, anything that can be done to reduce this and assist those that have to legitimately travel would assist greatly.”
