Coronavirus and the law

You must check in using the Check In TAS App (or alternative)

Everyone aged 16+ attending a business or in a taxi must now check in using the Check In TAS App. Alternatively, you may be able to record your details if you do not have access to a phone and the App at the time your visit. There is a $778.50 fine for people who refuse to do this.

Emergency orders and police powers

Police officers can now give infringement notices to people for not following restrictions. We explain this in our Emergency orders and police powers COVID-19 Factsheet.

Vaccination of children

Everyone in Australia aged 12 years and over can receive a COVID-19 vaccination. If you are not eligible for Medicare, you can still get vaccinated at Commonwealth, State and Territory Clinics and Pharmacies. The Tasmanian Government are now vaccinating children aged 16 years and above. Some groups of children aged 12-15 years are now also prioritised for vaccination.

A child aged 16-17 years who is able to give informed consent will be able to make their own decision about getting vaccinated. Generally, children 12-15 years will need a parent's or guardian's consent. If a parent has shared parental responsibility for a child who cannot give informed consent for themselves, he or she will need to have the other parent also give their consent. If a parents with shared parental responsibility cannot agree they should seek legal advice.

Compulsory vaccination for health care workers

The Tasmanian Government announced the requirement for all health care workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19. This means that all workers under the Public Health Direction are required to have received a first dose of COVID-19 vaccine or provide evidence of a booking or Vaccine exemption form by 31 October 2021, to be able to enter or remain on the premises, or provide health services outside of these premises.

Compulsory vaccinations apply to a range of health care works. Here are some answers to common questions related to compulsory vaccinations.

Attending court

If you are required to attend court and you are feeling unwell or have been in a COVID-19 hotspot or in close contact with someone who has, it is best to contact your lawyer or the court directly. The Magistrates Court have given information on how it is going to operate. The Supreme Court  is still conducting as much business as possible and has a range of measures in place to ensure community safety.

Information is available if you have a matter in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.

Parenting Orders and COVID-19

Ten tips for separated parents during COVID-19 has been prepared by the Law Council of Australia.

The well-being of your elder family members

During the coronavirus crisis, some seniors may be at heightened risk of elder abuse. Our Senior Assist programs remains open and we will continue to provide a service to seniors during this time.

If a person is at immediate danger or risk of significant harm, they should be advised to call police on 000.

The Tasmanian Elder Abuse Helpline provides advice and information on 1800 44 11 69.

If you would like to make a referral to Senior Assist you can reach us:

Support for people with a mortgage

All banks and mortgage lenders have hardship teams ready to help people in tough times. Some banks are offering six-month repayment deferrals on mortgages for customers impacted by coronavirus.

For the latest see Money Smart:  Problem paying your mortgage

Paying bills or fines

If you can't pay your electricity, gas, phone or water bill, contact your service provider straight away. They will explain your options, such as:

  • an extension to pay;
  • paying in instalments;
  • Centrelink deductions (Centrepay);
  • applying for a utility rebate or voucher by contacting Department of Communities Tasmania on 1300 135 513.

Further updates from Money Smart: Problems paying your bills and fines

Changes in employment

Information about the changes in employment due to current business restrictions are being provided by State Government and Job Watch.

Support for small business owners

Information is available to support small business owners on their role and responsibilities to staff and customers, in helping to stop the outbreak in Tasmania, as well as what support may be available. If you are a Tasmanian business and would like to discuss any impact you are experiencing, please contact a member of the Business Tasmania team on 1800 440 026.

Updated information is available at Business Tasmania: COVID-19: information for businesses

More information

Last updated: 16/12/2021