The state government on Tuesday (7 December) released the conditions for operation for businesses once restrictions are put in place.
From 17 December, there will be no capacity restrictions on businesses permitted to only allow fully vaccinated people to attend their premises.
This includes pubs, cafes, restaurants, indoor and outdoor entertainment venues, festivals, and Queensland government-owned galleries, museums, and libraries.
As with all health directions, police will be responsible for enforcement.
There will, however, be restrictions on unvaccinated people but they can still access essential services and activities, such as retail outlets, places of worship and public transport.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said it gives business clarity over exactly what is expected and how the mandate will work.
“Queensland is marching toward its 17 December milestone of easing restrictions on some businesses, so it is crucial people know what the rules mean for them,” the Premier said.
The Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Yvette D’Ath, said a suite of resources was available to support businesses.
“Venues will be required to take all reasonable steps to comply with the Direction and I am pleased to say the Queensland Government will be there to support them,” she said.
“One of those steps includes prominently displaying signs that make it clear to people if vaccination is required for entry.
“The Government has produced a series of posters that businesses can download for free and display at the entry of and in their premises.
“The Direction also includes a handy guide on measures businesses must meet, depending on the service they offer.”
Ms D’Ath said targeted restrictions were necessary to mitigate the serious health risk COVID-19 posed to more than 5 million Queenslanders.
“This Direction strikes the right balance between supporting Queensland businesses and limiting the spread of COVID-19 as Queensland’s borders reopen,” Ms D’Ath said.
Ms D’Ath said it was important to retain restrictions on unvaccinated people.
She said the government would work with people to inform them about the new rules but added that compliance was not optional.
“We will not tolerate those who wilfully flout their obligations and put the community at risk of COVID-19,” she said.
“Businesses will have the right to deny entry to unvaccinated people and anyone who refuses to comply with an order can be fined up to $1,378.50 and face imprisonment.”
The Minister for Employment and Small Business, Di Farmer, said 17 December marks a new COVID normal for everyone and that businesses will need help to navigate their way through the directive.
“We have worked closely with industry bodies, including the CCIQ and the Queensland Hotels Association, to develop a raft of measures to support businesses around the new rules,” Ms Farmer said.
“Resources like fact sheets and signage are available on the Business Queensland website, and TAFE Queensland has developed a free online micro-credential to guide businesses through the changes.
“When you are visiting these places, please respect the staff and the rules that they have in place, because aggressive and abusive behaviour will simply not be tolerated, and penalties will apply for those patrons who do not comply.”
