COVID-19 Advice for Norfolk Island

Due to the threat posed by COVID-19, a State of Emergency remains in force on Norfolk Island until 31 March 2022, or until revoked.
The Norfolk Island Updated COVID-19 Response Escalation Matrix will guide the recovery process during the state of emergency.

Travelling to Norfolk Island
All visitors and travellers to Norfolk Island MUST apply for a NORFOLK ISLAND TRAVEL PASS.
You will find more information about travelling and applying for the Travel Pass here.
Travellers must also complete a COVID test involving:

•  a negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island or,
• a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test is undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements; there are currently no tests available for purchase on the island. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.

Unvaccinated travellers are required to isolate on arrival for seven (7) days.

If you test positive for COVID, you are required to report this to the NIHRACS, phone 22091.

Norfolk Island COVID Normal requirements (Updated Friday 21 January 2022)

UPDATED - THURSDAY 27 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Histopath opening for Norfolk Island flights Brisbane Airport
Histopath laboratories at the Brisbane International Airport terminal has confirmed that they will again be opening at 6:30am on the mornings of Norfolk Island flights to provide PCR testing for passengers. The Brisbane clinics hours are 6:30am to 11:00pm seven days a week.
 
Histopath at Sydney airport is open from 8:00am to 11:30pm seven days per week.
 
The PCR testing results are generally available before your flight and an email of your result is also sent to you.
 
All travellers to Norfolk Island are required to submit a Travel Entry Pass, this is available at link https://norfolkau.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1083/record-types/6435 The Entry Pass is a statutory declaration and providing false information may result in penalties of up to $1,000.
Travellers must also complete a COVID test involving:

• a negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island or,
• a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements; there are currently no tests available for purchase on the island.
Visitors to the island testing positive whilst in accommodation
With the island reopening to visitors from today we expect that some may test positive whilst here. This can be from not being detected in testing or encountering the virus whilst on the island. Visitors testing positive whilst on the island will be required to self-isolate in their respective accommodation. NIHRACS have advised that the period of self-isolation is being reduced to seven (7) days from testing. Release will still be undertaken by NIHRACS.
 
Updated case numbers as of 27 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Monday 26 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	0
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	2
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	0.3
Current number of Active cases	10
Current number of high-risk cases	2
Close contacts and positive cases in isolation	21
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	0

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	75
Total number of tests conducted	425
Recovered (discharged) cases	65

	Persons over the age of 12 years			5 – 11 years
	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster
Total to date	1703	1725	1165	0	0	0

 
EMT will be meeting again on 3 February 2022

Key points of contact
Welfare: Hayley Evans, email hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf, phone- +672 3 52777
Incident Controller: Sergeant Mark Watson, email IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au, phone +672 3 22222
NIHRACS: Phone +672 3 22091 for all health-related enquiries
NIRC Website: www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
EMNI Facebook: @emergencymanagementnorfolkisland
 
14:30
27 January 2021
EMT

MEDIA RELEASE
Travel to Norfolk Island
All travellers to Norfolk Island are required to submit a Travel Entry Pass, this is available at link https://norfolkau.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1083/record-types/6435 The Entry Pass is a statutory declaration and providing false information may result in penalties of up to $1,000.
Travellers must also complete a COVID test involving:

• a negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on the island or,
• a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements; there are currently no tests available for purchase on the island.
Paediatric Vaccine Clinic
The vaccine program for children aged 5 – 11 years will start next week and will operate on Monday 31 January, Tuesday 01 and Wednesday 02 February. For more information, contact NIHRACS on telephone 22091.
Vaccine Booster
The booster clinic will finish this Friday 28 January. If you have not had this booster dose we encourage you to call NIHRACS and book a time. The next round of boosters is not anticipated to arrive until the end of February.
Business Information
An information pack for businesses which details operating conditions from 27 January will be available today. This will be circulated to businesses via the Business Council and the ATA.
If you require more information, contact Customer Care on free call 0100 or by emailing customercare [at] nirc.gov.nf
Updated case numbers as of 25 January 2022
The statistics below are at midnight on Monday 24 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	0
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	10
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	1.1
Current number of Active cases	12
Current number of high-risk cases	2
Close contacts and positive cases in isolation	23
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	2

MEDIA RELEASE

Travel to Norfolk Island
All travellers to Norfolk Island are required to submit a Travel Entry Pass, this is available at link https://norfolkau.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1083/record-types/6435 The Entry Pass is a statutory declaration, providing a false information may result in penalties. Information about the COVID testing requirements for those travelling to Norfolk Island is available on Councils website http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island

Medical Exemptions for Masks
There is a requirement for both staff and patrons of businesses to wear a mask when they are indoors. If you believe that you have a genuine reason for being granted a medical exemption from this requirement, contact NIHRACS on 22091. Medical exemptions must be issued locally. Documents issued elsewhere are not considered a certified exemption for the jurisdiction of Norfolk Island.

Fishing Businesses
The EMT understand that there are some complexities in the operation of certain types of businesses in the current COVID environment. Owners of fishing charter businesses are required to submit a COVID safe plan to the Incident Controller for review.
An information pack for businesses will be available early next week. The document provides key information about the current business operating conditions on the island.
If you require more information, contact Customer Care on free call 0100 or by emailing customercare [at] nirc.gov.nf

Updated case numbers as of 21 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Thursday 20 January 2022.  

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	1
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	11
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	1.9
Current number of Active cases	30
Current number of high-risk cases	4
Close contacts and positive cases in isolation	49
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	5

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	74
Total number of tests conducted	393
Recovered (discharged) cases	44

	Persons over the age of 12 years			5 – 11 years
	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster
Total to date	1702	1722	1061	0	0	0

The EMT will meet Tuesday and Thursday next week and will provide media to the community on these days.

Key points of contact
Welfare: Hayley Evans, email hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf, phone- +672 3 52777
Incident Controller: Sergeant Mark Watson, email IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au, phone +672 3 22222
NIHRACS: Phone +672 3 22091 for all health-related enquiries
NIRC Website: www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
EMNI Facebook: @emergencymanagementnorfolkisland
 
15:30
21 January 2021
EMT

UPDATED - WEDNESDAY 19 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
Travel to Norfolk Island
To reduce pressure on the health system during the current Omicron outbreak, EMNI has adopted a series of requirements for those travelling to the island. These are compulsory for everyone, and they are different to the requirements that are currently in place for most interstate travel on the mainland. It is important that all travellers to the island comply with the directions; failure to do so may result in penalties.
 
All travellers to the island are required to submit a Travel Entry Pass, this is available at link https://norfolkau.viewpointcloud.com/categories/1083/record-types/6435
 
Travellers must also complete a COVID test involving:

•  a negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements as there are currently no tests available for purchase on island. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.

If you test positive for COVID, you are required to report this to the NIHRACS, phone 22091.
Information for Sporting Clubs
Sporting clubs wishing to resume regular activity, or host events, are required to submit a COVID safe plan to the Incident Controller for review.
The key elements of your plan must include safe facility management, hygiene practices, attendance registers and limiting shared equipment as much as possible. You can find more information on Sport Australia’s website www.sportaus.gov.au/covid-safe-sport
Updated case numbers as of 19 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Tuesday 18 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	3
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	14
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	2.9
Current number of Active cases	31
Current number of high-risk cases	5
Close contacts and positive cases in isolation	50
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	0

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	70
Total number of tests conducted	368
Recovered (discharged) cases	39

	Persons over the age of 12 years			5 – 11 years
	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster	1st dose	2nd dose	Booster
Total to date	1702	1722	737	0	0	0

 

Paediatric vaccines have arrived on island. The roll out of the vaccine program for 5-11-year-old children is in the planning stages. More information will be provided to the community in the coming weeks.
Key points of contact
Welfare: Hayley Evans, email hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf, phone- +672 3 52777
Incident Controller: Sergeant Mark Watson, email IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au, phone +672 3 22222
NIHRACS: Phone +672 3 22091 for all health-related enquiries
NIRC Website: www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
EMNI Facebook: @emergencymanagementnorfolkisland
 
14:30
19 January 2021
EMT

UPDATED - MONDAY 17 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
COVID testing requirements for entry into Norfolk Island
The island has restrictions in place to aid in reducing pressure on the health system during the current Omicron outbreak. These include testing before travel (PCR) and RAT testing along with other local restrictions (mask wearing, density limits etc.) once on-island.
 
There is a pause in visitor arrivals until midnight 26 January 2022; travel is still permitted for returning residents and essential workers.
 
Travel to the island now, and after 27 January, requires all travellers to complete a COVID test involving:
 

• a negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.
If you test positive for COVID, you are required to report this to the NIHRACS, phone 22091.

Visitor Information about health services on Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island Health and Aged Care Service (NIHRACS) is a small facility with limited services and without an Intensive Care Unit. If you arrive on Norfolk Island and present with COVID-19 or discover that you are a close contact, you are required to isolate at your accommodation until you return a negative test and are cleared for release. Extended accommodation expenses are at guests’ own expense. You cannot fly back to Australia until you are released from isolation and medically cleared.

Those who are at risk of serious illness if they contract COVID-19 (including older people and those with a range of underlying health conditions) should reconsider their travel to Norfolk Island at this time, given the local spread of COVID on island. More information about who is most at risk of contracting COVID can be found online at Health Direct  www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-groups-at-higher-risk-faqs

Anyone who has COVID symptoms or underlying health conditions is strongly recommended not to travel to the island.

Updated case numbers as of 17 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Sunday 16 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	0
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	7
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	3.6
Current number of Active cases	33
Current number of high-risk cases	4
Close Contacts in isolation	51
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	2

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	65
Total number of tests conducted	343
Recovered (discharged) cases	32

 

 Note: With EMT now meeting Monday, Wednesday, and Friday the next update will be on Wednesday January 19.
Key points of contact
Welfare: Hayley Evans, email hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf, phone- +672 3 52777
Incident Controller: Sergeant Mark Watson, email IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au, phone +672 3 22222
NIHRACS: Phone +672 3 22091 for all health-related enquiries
 
Information about Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) is available on Facebook emergencymanagementnorfolkisland and the Councils website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
 
14:30
17 January 2021
EMT

UPDATED - FRIDAY 14 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
Visitor information for travel to the island
Visitor travel to island can commence from Thursday 27 January 2022.
Before travelling to island, we urge all visitors to carefully consider what your health needs may be as there is community transmission of COVID-19 on Norfolk Island.
Norfolk Island is a small and remote community. The Norfolk Island Health and Aged Care Service (NIHRACS) is a small facility with limited services and without an Intensive Care Unit.
If you arrive on Norfolk Island and present with COVID-19 or discover that you are a close contact, you are required to isolate at your accommodation until you return a negative test and are cleared for release. Extended accommodation expenses are at guests’ own expense. You cannot fly back to Australia until you are released from isolation and medically cleared.
Those who are at risk of serious illness if they contract COVID-19 (including older people and those with a range of underlying health conditions) should reconsider their travel to Norfolk Island at this time, given the local spread of COVID on island. More information about who is most at risk of contracting COVID can be found online at Health Direct  www.healthdirect.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-groups-at-higher-risk-faqs
Returning a negative PCR or RAT test is a good indicator but, it is not foolproof - if you feel unwell, please do not travel and consider postponing your holiday on Norfolk Island for a future date.

Mandatory Reporting of Positive Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT)
If you are doing a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) at home, it is important that you follow the testing instructions carefully to ensure that you receive an accurate result. Testing kits can vary significantly between brands.
If you test positive for COVID, you are required to report this to the NIHRACS, phone 22091.

De-escalation to level 3
The Response Escalation Matrix, when first created, was centred around zero COVID cases. The current environmental conditions do not reflect this, therefore, the decision to change restrictions as at midnight 26 January 2022 to level 3 was made using the Matrix as a guide only. The EMT has acknowledged that the de-escalation triggers in the Matrix are too rigid and not flexible in living with COVID and the current OMICRON variant.
In making decisions the EMT takes a holistic approach. Health is a leading factor taken into consideration however, other factors such as the economic, social, and welfare impacts to the community are also considered.
The EMT will next week reduce meeting frequency to Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Daily statistical information will still be provided to the community.

Updated case numbers as of 14 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Thursday 13 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	11
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	5
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	3.9
Current number of Active cases	43
Current number of high-risk cases	4
Close Contacts in isolation	26
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	2

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	65
Total number of tests conducted	307
Recovered (discharged) cases	22

 

People who have had COVID and who have been medically cleared and discharged by NIHRACS are free to join the community and return to work but, must comply with the requirements to wear masks and practice social distancing.
 
Key points of contact
Welfare: Hayley Evans, email hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf, phone 52777
Incident Controller: Sergeant Mark Watson, email IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au, phone 22222
NIHRACS: Phone 22091 for all health-related enquiries
 
The area code for Norfolk Island, for international callers, is +672 3 i.e. +672 3 22222
 
You can find information about Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) on Facebook emergencymanagementnorfolkisland and the Councils website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
 
14:30
14 January 2021
EMT

UPDATED  THURSDAY 13 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
Banyan Park
Banyan Park early learning centre will progressively reopen from Monday 17 January 2022. For the first week this will be for children of essential workers and vulnerable families.
Discussions with Banyan Park staff have established that for the purpose of reopening in this first week the following roles are considered essential:

• Medical Services
• Port and Port Operations including Stevedoring
• Water, Waste Water, Power and Fuel
• Telecommunications and Internet providers
• Waste Services
• AFP (NI Police)
• Critical government services
• Airline staff
• Supermarkets/Convenience stores
• Meat/Seafood suppliers
• Service Stations and Pharmacies
• On-Call contractors for approved emergency repairs
• Hardware stores
• Fire Fighters
• Welfare workers as required i.e. NI Connect and Anglicare

Banyan Park anticipates returning to normal operating conditions from Monday 24 January.
Questions about Banyan Park enrolment should be made to their Director, Emma Cullen.
Reopen for visitors -January 27
The current level of restrictions for the community will remain in place until midnight 26 January 2022; after this time travel to the island for visitors can resume.
 
Reopening of the island to visitors will not change the requirement to wear facial masks. Community members, particularly those most at risk, should continue to exercise caution. By continuing to wear masks, sanitise and practice social distancing, we better manage the spread of the virus. This helps to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
Any questions about the restrictions are to be directed to the Incident Controller, Sergeant Mark Watson, by emailing IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or by phoning +6723 22222.
Updated case numbers as of 13 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Wednesday 12 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	6
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	21
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	3.6
Current number of Active cases	40
Current number of high-risk cases	TBA
Close Contacts in isolation	TBA
Recovered (discharged) cases (Previous 24hrs)	4

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	60
Total number of tests conducted	296
Recovered (discharged) cases	20

 

 
To keep up to date with the information about Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) follow our Facebook page emergencymanagementnorfolkisland or, check the Councils website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
 
 
14:30
13 January 2021
EMT

UPDATED WEDNESDAY 12 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Reopen for visitors -January 27
Today the EMT reviewed the level of restrictions in place for the community as well as those travelling to the island. The decision has been made to maintain the current level of restrictions for an additional seven (7) days until 26 January 2022. From Thursday 27 January 2022, level three restrictions will be in place and travel to the island by visitors can resume.
 
Vaccines for children between 5 and 12 years old and boosters are also expected on the island in the next few days. Booster vaccinations are recommended for the community and the vulnerable are being prioritised by NIHRACS. Once on-island NIHRACS will advise the community of the vaccination program.
Any questions about the restrictions are to be directed to the Incident Controller, Sergeant Mark Watson, by emailing IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or by phoning +6723 22222.

Updated case numbers as of 12 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Tuesday 11 January 2022.
 

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	6
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	28
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	4.3
Current number of Active cases	38
Current number of high-risk cases	7
Close Contacts in isolation	90
Recovered (discharged) cases	16

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	54
Total number of tests conducted	300

 

 
To keep up to date with the information about Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) follow our Facebook page emergencymanagementnorfolkisland or, check the Councils website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
 
The EMT appreciates the community’s patience and co-operation in managing the spread of COVID on island. We urge the community to continue to exercise caution when outside of the home, and practice good hygiene and social distancing.
 
14:30
12 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED TUESDAY 11 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Restrictions
The EMT will review the level of restrictions in place for the community as well as those travelling to the island tomorrow, Wednesday 12 January. Information about the decision will be available on the Emergency Management Norfolk Island (EMNI) Facebook page emergencymanagementnorfolkisland and on Councils website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island
Updated case numbers as of 11 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight on Monday 10 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24hrs)	8
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	30
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	4.9
Current number of Active cases	34
Current number of high-risk cases	6
Close Contacts in isolation	90
Recovered (discharged) cases	14

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	48
Total number of tests conducted	249

 
Those most at risk including the elderly, immune system compromised or unvaccinated, are encouraged self-isolate at this time to avoid exposure to COVID. EMT understand that this is can be challenging, particularly during school holidays when care for children is limited, however, those most at risk should take every precaution to ensure that their level of exposure is minimised.
If you are in quarantine or self-isolating, and require access to goods or services, contact the Welfare Coordinator. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to COVID contact the NIHRACS on 22091. DO NOT go to the Hospital.
 
14:30
11 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED MONDAY 10 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Welfare
People in isolation who have concerns about accessing food or medical supplies are urged to contact the Welfare Coordinator, Hayley Evans, on mobile 52777 or by emailing hayley.evans [at] nirc.gov.nf. If you require phone credit and are unable to access the Self-Care app to top up your mobile phone, please contact Customer Care on Free call 0100. You do not need credit to access the Free call number and, Customer Care are able to take payment over the phone and top up your mobile.
If you are elderly, immune system compromised or unvaccinated, you are encouraged to take extra precautions and self-isolate wherever possible. If you require access to goods or services, contact the Welfare Coordinator.
 
Expressions of Interest for the provision of emergency tourist accommodation
Expressions of interest are invited from registered tourist accommodation houses for the provision of emergency accommodation. Applications close 5pm on Wednesday 12 January, 2022. This information has been provided to the ATA. All enquiries and applications are to be sent directly to Hayley Evans by email.
 
Updated case numbers as of 10 January 2022
The statistics below are as at midnight Sunday 9 January 2022 and include Saturday’s information also. Scheduled RAT tests were not conducted over the weekend. The RAT tests listed in the table below were for those requiring care at NIHRACS over the weekend.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 48hrs)	0
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 48hrs)	12
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	4.0
Current number of Active cases	35
Current number of high-risk cases	6
Close Contacts in isolation	120
Recovered (discharged) cases	5

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	40
Total number of tests conducted	226

 
NIHRACS are managing COVID patients under a shared care model with Metro North in Queensland. This is via a virtual ward to ensure that patients in isolation have regular contact with a medical professional from either NIHRACS or Metro North.
 
Restrictions
There have been no changes to the level restrictions for the community, or in the travel restrictions to island until 19 January, 2022. A review of travel restrictions will be undertaken by EMT this Wednesday 12 January.
Information about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island is on Councils website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island If you cannot find the information that you are looking for, contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.
Businesses no longer required to record visitation via paper
All business should now be using the Queensland QR code system and app as the preferred method of recording persons who access their premise. There is no longer a requirement by EMT to record visitation manually on paper registers, however if your business is not registered with the Queensland Check In App, you can choose to retain the paper-based register.
 
The EMT recognises the efforts of the community in assisting in the management of COVID on island and the measures that everyone is taking is assisting in moderating the virus spread through the community.
 
 14:30
10 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED FRIDAY 7 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE

The Omicron Variant Confirmed
It has been confirmed that the COVID positive cases on island are the Omicron variant. Information known about Omicron indicates that it is highly transmissible and for each person who tests positive there are likely seven to ten others infected. To manage the spread of COVID on island it is important that the community continue to maintain social distancing practices and wear a mask when outside of the home. Good hygiene practices such as regularly washing hands and using hand sanitiser are also essential to managing the transmission of Omicron.

If you are elderly, immune system compromised, vulnerable or unvaccinated, please take extra precautions when outside of your home. We encourage you to stay home, wherever possible to do so. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on telephone 52777.

Anyone on island who is feeling unwell should contact NIHRACS on 22091 to arrange a phone consultation. Do not go to the hospital directly unless in an emergency in which case please do so as usual via the Ambulance system. The hospital remains open and operational for all emergencies.

Updated case numbers as of 7 January 2022
The EMT are working closely with NIHRACs to collate statistical data about the COVID pandemic on Norfolk Island. The statistics below are as at 10am Friday 7 January 2022.

COVID Statistics	Number
Positive RAT tests (previous 24 hrs)	1
Number of RAT tests conducted (previous 24hrs)	3
Daily average of positive tests (7days)	4.9
Current number of Active cases	35
Current number of high-risk cases	8
Close Contacts in isolation	90
Recovered (discharged) cases	1

 

Vaccination Statistics	Number of people
First dose	2002
Second dose	1720
Booster dose	411

 

Cumulative Statistic	Number
Total number of positive (including recovered)	36
Total number of tests conducted	195

Note: There will be no additional vaccinations until the arrival of the next batch of vaccines expected after 14 January. NIHRACS will not be conducting routine RAT testing over the weekend. Updated statistics that include today’s numbers will be published tomorrow.
Number format to register for the Queensland Check In App
Queensland Health has advised that for businesses registering to use the Check In App it is preferable to use a Norfolk Island number in the format 06723[mobile of landline number]. For example 0672350000

Current testing requirements for entry into Norfolk Island
The pause in visitor arrivals that is in place until Wednesday 19 January 2022 still permits returning residents and essential workers to travel to the island, with the following testing requirements for both international and domestic travellers:
 

• A negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Those who have completed a RAT test are required to bring an additional test with them to comply with the above testing requirements. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.
Anyone who has COVID symptoms or underlying complex health conditions is strongly recommended not to travel to the island.
Restrictions
There have been no changes to the level restrictions for the community. If you have any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Councils website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.
 
The EMT is very appreciative of the community support of the management measures that are currently in force.
 
15:00
7 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED THURSDAY 6 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
International Arrivals
The requirement for international travellers to isolate for 14 days on arrival on Norfolk Island has been removed. Travellers will still be required to comply with Australian national requirements for entry from any international destination but will only need to comply with testing requirements for entry into Norfolk Island.
Cleaning Requirements
The EMT has received advice about the cleaning requirements for those who have tested positive and who have been in quarantine at a home or residence. Cleaning with normal household products is suitable for any private residences, however, if the home is a holiday house or tourist accommodation, then a deep clean prior to the next occupant’s arrival is advisable. Additional information will be provided to businesses separately and will be available on Council’s website soon.
 
Queensland Check In App
Businesses should now be using the Queensland Check In application for customer registration on the island. Unlike the NSW check-in application, the Queensland version does not send an SMS verification, therefore it can be used by customers for registration purposes at businesses on the island.
 
Businesses will need to register with the app and details of how to do this can be found at https://www.covid19.qld.gov.au/check-in-qld#_business The business registration process requires you to provide a mainland mobile number and accepts a Norfolk Island addresses. Once registered you will receive a welcome pack that includes a unique QR code that you print and display at your business for customer registration.
 
Customers will need to download the mobile app onto their device and need to have an internet or data connection to do this. If people cannot use the app, or do not have a smart device, your staff can check them in using the business profile mode on the app. It remains a requirement for customer registration and the use of the QR code.
 
Information collected by the mobile app is being used by the contact tracing team on island as an aid in identifying exposure sites.
Visitor pause commences today until January 19, testing requirements for entry into Norfolk Island
Visitor arrivals to the island will pause from today Thursday 6 January 2022. This pause will remain in place until Wednesday 19 January. The pause is to allow NIHRACS to manage the current level of COVID cases in the community without additional cases from visitors arriving on the island. This decision will be reviewed on 12 January. Returning residents and essential workers will continue to be able to obtain Entry Permits.
 
Testing requirements for passengers to the island remain in place and are:

• A negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Due to the limited availability of RAT tests on the island passengers are required to bring a RAT test with them to comply with this requirement. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.
Anyone who has COVID symptoms or underlying health conditions is strongly recommended not to travel to the island and anyone on the island who has the slightest symptoms should self-isolate and contact NIHRACS to have a RAT test undertaken.
Updated case numbers as of 6 January 2022
Rapid tests undertaken on Wednesday 5 January identified an additional four (4) positive results. The total number of people on the island who have tested positive is now 35. Those who have tested positive are being closely monitored by NIHRACS with eight (8) cases being considered high risk.
 
There are approximately 150 close contacts in self-isolation on the island. Close contacts are also being monitored by the NIHRACS team and are released when it is regarded safe to do so. More people will be placed into self-isolation as contact tracing of people who have tested positive occurs.
 
If you are a close contact in isolation it is important that you do not have contact with the rest of the community. If you have any symptoms associated with COVID you must self-isolate and contact NIHRACS immediately and arrange for a test.
 
It is highly recommended that for the next few weeks those who can work from home do so and people should try to minimise close interaction with each other - especially indoors.
Restrictions
EMT is guided by the Response Escalation Matrix. The current status under the Matrix is level 4, with flexibility for cafes and restaurants, personal services and non-essential businesses who are permitted to operate with enforced social distancing of 1person/4sqm and mandatory masks for all staff and customers when indoors.
 
EMT is very appreciative of the community support of the management measures that are currently in force and greatly regrets the disruption to the community and business associated with the visitor arrival pause. If we continue to abide with the measures that we currently have in place it is hoped that the virus moves through the community at a rate that can be managed by NIHRACS.
EMT will continue to review the situation daily.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, you can contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
14:30
6 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED WEDNESDAY 5 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Pause in visitor arrivals to the island and testing requirements.
Visitor arrivals to the island will pause from tomorrow (6 January). This pause will remain in place until Wednesday 19 January. The pause is to allow NIHRACS to manage the current level of COVID cases in the community without additional cases from visitors arriving on the island. This decision will be reviewed on 12 January. Returning residents and essential workers will continue to be able to obtain Entry Permits.
 
Testing requirements for passengers to the island remain in place and are:
 

• A negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Due to the limited availability of RAT tests on the island passengers are required to bring a RAT test with them to comply with this requirement. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.
Anyone who has COVID symptoms or underlying health conditions should not travel to the island and anyone on the island who has the slightest symptoms should self-isolate and contact NIHRACS to have a RAT test undertaken.
 
Updated case numbers as of 5 January 2022
Rapid tests undertaken on island yesterday Tuesday 4 January identified an additional 11 (eleven) positive results. The total number of people on the island who have tested positive is now 31. Those who have tested positive are being closely monitored by NIHRACS with seven (7) cases being considered high risk.
 
There are approximately 180 close contacts in self-isolation on the island. Close contacts are being released when it is regarded safe to do so. More people will be placed into self-isolation as contact tracing of people who have tested positive occurs. Additional resources have been provided to assist NIHRACS with contract tracing.
 
If you are a close contact in isolation it is important that you do not have contact with the rest of the community. If you have any symptoms associated with COVID you must self-isolate and contact NIHRACS immediately and arrange for a test.
 
Restrictions
EMT is guided by the Response Escalation Matrix but, is flexible in its approach depending on community and environmental circumstances. As identified in yesterday’s communication, the conditions for Level 4 of the matrix has been met, in consideration of NIHRAC’s ability to monitor and manage.
 
Restrictions for the community remain at level 3, therefore apart from the pause on visitors arrivals the restrictions on business operations remain the same. At level 3 sport and recreation activities are suspended, however, social gatherings are permitted up to a maximum of 150 people. The number of people who can attend an event is determined by compliance with the 1 person per 4sqm rule.
 
Cafes and restaurants, personal services and non-essential businesses are permitted to operate with the following restrictions: enforced social distancing of 1person/4sqm and mandatory masks for all staff and customers when indoors.
 
It is highly recommended that for the next few weeks those who can work from home do so and people should try to minimise close interaction with each other -especially indoors.
 
EMT is very appreciative of the community support of the management measures that are currently in force and greatly regrets the disruption to the community and business associated with the visitor arrival pause. If we continue to abide with the measures that we currently have in place it is hoped that the virus moves through the community at a rate that can be managed by NIHRACS.
 
EMT will continue to review the situation daily.
 
COVID Support Team
NIRC has moved quickly to establish a COVID support team to help NIHRACS in the work associated with managing the pandemic. The team is comprised of NIRC management and staff along with others who have curtailed their holidays to help. EMNI thanks all those who are now working very hard to help ensure that COVID is managed to the extent possible on the island.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
16:00
5 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED TUESDAY 4 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Pause in visitor arrivals to the island and testing requirements.
EMT has agreed to a pause in visitor arrivals to the island commencing from this coming Thursday, 6 January and extending to Wednesday 19 January 2022. The pause is to allow NIHRACS to manage the current level of COVID cases in the community without additional cases from visitors arriving on the island. The pause will be reviewed on Wednesday 12 January. Returning residents and essential workers will continue to be able to obtain Entry Permits.
 
With the closure of many places offering PCR testing on the mainland testing requirements for passengers to the island have been modified to the following: -
 

• A negative PCR test result in the 72 hours prior to arrival on island

or

• A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) in the 48 hours prior to arrival and a negative RAT test undertaken within 24 hours of arrival on the island.

Due to the limited availability of RAT tests on the island passengers are advised to bring a RAT test with them to comply with this requirement. There is no requirement to self-isolate before undertaking the second RAT test.
Anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or underlying health conditions should not travel to the island and anyone on the island who has the slightest symptoms should self-isolate and contact NIHRACS to have a RAT test undertaken.
 
Updated case numbers as of 4 January 2022
Results of the PCR tests undertaken on the 30 of December 2021 have been received indicating that ten (10) of the close contacts in isolation are positive. This brings the number of positive people on the island to twenty (20). Fortunately, all the new positive people were already in isolation and contact tracing is underway to identify their close contacts. Those who have tested positive remain on the island. All 20 cases are being monitored daily by NIHRACS medical staff, 6 of which are deemed high risk and are also receiving daily clinical review from an Infectious Disease Consultant at Royal Brisbane, Metro North Hospital and Health Service (MNHHS).

 
There are currently 194 close contacts in self -isolation on the island. Close contacts are being released when it is regarded safe to do so and further people are being placed into self-isolation as contact tracing of people who test positive occurs. Most of the cases are reporting mild symptoms. It is therefore vitally important that if you are a close contact in isolation, you do not have contact with the rest of the community. If you have any symptoms associated with COVID, you must self-isolate, contact NIHRACS immediately and arrange for a test.
 
Response Escalation Matrix -conditions for level 4 met
EMT decided today that the conditions associated with level 4 had been met as NIHRACS has indicated that its ability to manage the local cases is at capacity. However, with the pause in visitors introduced from Thursday 6 January, it was agreed that additional restrictions on the community are not required at this time.
 
It is highly recommended that for the next few weeks those who can work from home, do so and people should try to minimise close interaction with each other - especially indoors.
 
EMT is very appreciative of the community support of the management measures that are currently in force and greatly regrets the disruption to the community and business associated with the visitor arrival pause. If we continue to abide with the measures that we currently have in place, it is hoped that the virus moves through the community at a rate that can be managed by NIHRACS.
 
EMT will continue to review the situation daily.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
15:00
4 January 2022
EMT

UPDATED MONDAY 3 JANUARY 2022

MEDIA RELEASE
Updated case numbers as of 3 January 2022
Another two positive COVID-19 results were recorded yesterday. This brings the number of positive cases on the island to ten. Those who have tested positive remain on the island. Three of the cases continue to be monitored by NIHRACS.
There are currently 209 close contacts in self -isolation on the island.
Most of the cases are reporting mild symptoms. It is therefore vitally important that if you have any symptoms associated with COVID that you self-isolate, contact NIHRACS immediately and arrange for a test.
 
Response Escalation Matrix level 3 no change
Whilst there have been an additional two cases reported in the last 24 hours these are currently not requiring close monitoring by NIHRACS. EMT at its meeting today agreed to maintain the response matrix at level 3.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
Public exposure sites published daily.
The list of NIHRACS public exposure sites associated with new cases on the island is enclosed and will be published daily by EMNI during the current outbreak.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
14:30
3 January 2022
EMT

Contact tracing locations exist across Norfolk - Monday 3 January 2022
People who have been to any of the following venues around the same time as a person with COVID-19 will need to monitor for symptoms and get tested if symptoms appear.
Phone the GP Clinic on 22091 to book an appointment.
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19.
 

Date	Location	Time
26/12/2021	Bumboras Beach (Boxing Day Surf Comp)	08:00am - 09:10am
26/12/2021	Munnas BBQ Area (Boxing Day Surf Comp)	10:30am - 22:30pm
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Bumboras Beach	08:30am – 09:45am
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	09:5am – 12:00 noon
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	15:00pm – 21:30pm
27/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	11:15am-11:30am
27/12/2021	Borry's, Taylors Road	12:00noon – 13:00pm
27/12/2021	The Olive Café	11:30am - 13:00pm
27/12/2021	Norfolk Island Airport	13:10pm - 13:45pm
27/12/2021	Castaway	09:00am – 12:00 noon
27/12/2021	Governors	13:30pm – 14:30pm
27/12/2021	The Olive Café	11:30am – 13:00pm
27/12/2021	Norfolk island Airport	13:10pm – 14:10am
27/12/2021	Paw Paws Pump Shed	12:10pm – 12:20pm
27/12/2021	Cascade Pier	16:30pm - 18:30pm
28/12/2021	Emily Bay	10:00am - 11:00am
28/12/2021	Crystal Pool	16:30pm - 18:00pm
28/12/2021	Borry's, Taylors Road	08:30am - 16:30pm
28/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	16:45pm - 17:15pm
28/12/2021	A&H Hall	17:30pm - 20:00pm
28/12/2021	Saints Holiday Accommodation	09:00am – 12:00 noon
28/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	17:00pm – 17:10pm
28/12/2021	P&R Grocers	15:00pm – 15:05pm
28/12/2021	Cascade Pier	14:00pm – 17:00pm
29/12/2021	Borry's Rental Car's	08:20am - 08:40am
29/12/2021	Day Dreamer Lodge	08:30am - 10:30am
29/12/2021	Whispering Pines Accommodation	10:30am - 11:30am
29/12/2021	P&R Groceries	07:45am - 08:15am
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island National Park - Mt Bates track	08:30am - 10:30am
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island Botanic Gardens - toilet block	10:45am - 11:00am
29/12/2021	Puppies Point - toilet block	11:50am - 12:00noon
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island Tourist Bureau	12:30pm - 12:31pm
29/12/2021	Bounty Bar and Grill	19:30pm - 22:30pm
29/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	08:45am - 09:10am
29/12/2021	Burnt Pine Pharmacy	08:45am - 09:10am
29/12/2021	Leagues Club	08:30am – 09:00am
29/12/2021	Govenors	10:00am – 10:10am
29/12/2021	Bowling Club	10:00am – 10:10am
29/12/2021	Bounty Bar and Grill	10:10am – 10:20am
29/12/2021	Hamish's Cottages	18:00pm – 19:30pm
29/12/2021	Foodlands	13:30pm – 15:30pm
30/12/2021	Paw Paw’s pumpshed	09:30am – 10:00am
30/12/2021	Foodlands Warehouse	09:30am – 10:00am
30/12/2021	Waste Management	11:30am – 11:55am
30/12/2021	Liquor Bond	15:00pm – 15:30pm
30/12/2021	Two Chimmneys Reserve	17:00pm - 18:00pm
30/12/2021	Burnt Pine Pharmacy	09:00am – 09:30am
30/12/2021	Hot Krust Bakery	09:30am – 10:00am
31/12/2021	Emily Bay	07:00am – 08:00am
31/12/2021	Puppies point Reserve	08:00am – 09:00am
31/12/2021	Airport	12:30pm - 14:30pm
01/01/2022	Emily Bay	08:00am – 09:00am

 
 

UPDATED SUNDAY 2 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE

Updated case numbers as of 2 January 2022
A further two (2) positive COVID-19 results were recorded yesterday. This brings the number of positive cases on the island to eight (8). Those who have tested positive remain on the island. Three of the cases are being closely monitored and treated by NIHRACS.
 
There were an additional 43 close contacts identified with these further cases. This brings the number of close contacts undergoing self-isolation on the island to 190. It is expected that further positive cases will be identified over the next few days.
 
Response Escalation Matrix level 3.
With COVID-19 circulating in the community the objective of COVID management on the island is to ensure that those who contract COVID-19 and require medical treatment receive it whilst ensuing those essential services to the community are maintained. It is expected that the current outbreak will be with us for several weeks and during this time EMT is using the Response Escalation Matrix to guide management of living with COVID-19 on the island. Escalation or de-escalation of responses will be assessed according to the requirements of managing this phase of the pandemic.
 
NIHRACS is approaching its capacity to manage the cases that need close monitoring and provide medical services to the community. For this reason, EMT agreed today to move to level 3 of the Response Escalation Matrix. No additional restrictions are placed upon public gatherings and businesses at level 3.
 
For NIHRACS it triggers additional resource requirements associated with invoking its Business Continuity Plan. These resources are being sought both from the mainland and locally. NIRC and individual members of the community are providing additional resources to NIHRACS to assist them through this phase and the offers by people in the community to help is greatly appreciated.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
Public exposure sites published daily.
The list of NIHRACS public exposure sites associated with new cases on the island is enclosed and will be published daily by EMNI during the current outbreak.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
15:30
2 January 2022
EMT
 
Contact tracing locations exist across Norfolk - Sunday 2 January 2022
People who have been to any of the following venues around the same time as a person with COVID-19 will need to monitor for symptoms and get tested if symptoms appear.
Phone the GP Clinic on 22091 to book an appointment.
Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19.
 

Date	Location	Time
26/12/2021	Bumboras Beach (Boxing Day Surf Comp)	08:00am - 09:10am
26/12/2021	Munnas BBQ Area (Boxing Day Surf Comp)	10:30am - 22:30pm
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Bumboras Beach	08:30am – 09:45am
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	09:5am – 12:00 noon
26/12/2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	15:00pm – 21:30pm
27/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	11:15am-11:30am
27/12/2021	Borry's, Taylors Road	12:00noon – 13:00pm
27/12/2021	The Olive Café	11:30am - 13:00pm
27/12/2021	Norfolk Island Airport	13:10pm - 13:45pm
27/12/2021	Castaway	09:00am – 12:00 noon
27/12/2021	Governors	13:30pm – 14:30pm
27/12/2021	The Olive Café	11:30am – 13:00pm
27/12/2021	Norfolk island Airport	13:10pm – 14:10am
27/12/2021	Paw Paws Pump Shed	12:10pm – 12:20pm
27/12/2021	Cascade Pier	16:30pm - 18:30pm
28/12/2021	Emily Bay	10:00am - 11:00am
28/12/2021	Crystal Pool	16:30pm - 18:00pm
28/12/2021	Borry's, Taylors Road	08:30am - 16:30pm
28/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	16:45pm - 17:15pm
28/12/2021	A&H Hall	17:30pm - 20:00pm
28/12/2021	Saints Holiday Accommodation	09:00am – 12:00 noon
28/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	17:00pm – 17:10pm
28/12/2021	P&R Grocers	15:00pm – 15:05pm
28/12/2021	Cascade Pier	14:00pm – 17:00pm
29/12/2021	Borry's Rental Car's	08:20am - 08:40am
29/12/2021	Day Dreamer Lodge	08:30am - 10:30am
29/12/2021	Whispering Pines Accommodation	10:30am - 11:30am
29/12/2021	P&R Groceries	07:45am - 08:15am
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island National Park - Mt Bates track	08:30am - 10:30am
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island Botanic Gardens - toilet block	10:45am - 11:00am
29/12/2021	Puppies Point - toilet block	11:50am - 12:00noon
29/12/2021	Norfolk Island Tourist Bureau	12:30pm - 12:31pm
29/12/2021	Bounty Bar and Grill	19:30pm - 22:30pm
29/12/2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	08:45am - 09:10am
29/12/2021	Burnt Pine Pharmacy	08:45am - 09:10am
29/12/2021	Leagues Club	08:30am – 09:00am
29/12/2021	Govenors	10:00am – 10:10am
29/12/2021	Bowling Club	10:00am – 10:10am
29/12/2021	Bounty Bar and Grill	10:10am – 10:20am
29/12/2021	Hamish's Cottages	18:00pm – 19:30pm
29/12/2021	Foodlands	13:30pm – 15:30pm
30/12/2021	Two Chimmneys Reserve	17:00pm - 18:00pm
30/12/2021	Burnt Pine Pharmacy	09:00am – 09:30am
30/12/2021	Hot Krust Bakery	09:30am – 10:00am

 
 

UPDATED SATURDAY 1 JANUARY 2022
MEDIA RELEASE
Updated case numbers as of 1 January 2022
A further four (4) positive COVID-19 results were recorded yesterday. This brings the number of positive cases on the island to six (6). Those who have tested positive remain on the island and are being closely monitored and treated by NIHRACS.

There were an additional fifty (50) close contacts identified with these further cases. This brings the number of close contacts undergoing self-isolation on the island to one hundred and thirty seven (137). It is expected that further positive cases will be identified in the close contact swabs that were sent off-island yesterday (Friday 31 December, 2021).
 
It is extremely important that those people who have been required to undergo self-isolation keep themselves isolated from the rest of the community, and do NOT leave their accommodation or property for any purpose. By doing this they are performing a service to the rest of the community by limiting the potential spread of the virus and this is appreciated by us all.
 
If you are in isolation and feeling unwell, please contact NIHRACS on 22091 and they will arrange to have a phone consultation with you. Do not go to the hospital. If you need anything such as food or supplies, please contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777 so that this can be arranged.
 
Wearing of masks
Masks are required to be worn indoors by all staff and customers in Café’s, Restaurants, Retail, Personal Services, and non-essential businesses (tours etc.). This is a mandatory requirement that protects both the business and other customers and is essential in minimising transient spreading of the virus. Limited emergency supplies of masks are being made available to accommodation houses, and to the community through the Red Cross on 52112 and St John’s ambulance on 51802. Supplies of further masks are expected on the island by commercial outlets in the next few days.
Public exposure sites published daily.
The list of COVID-19 public exposure sites associated with new cases on the island is enclosed and will be published daily by EMNI during the current outbreak.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
14:00
1 January 2022
EMT

Contact tracing locations exist across Norfolk - Saturday 1 January 2022
 

UPDATED FRIDAY 31 DECEMBER 2021
MEDIA RELEASE
Public exposure sites as at December 31
 
Below is the list of public exposure sites associated with the two positive cases reported yesterday. Anyone who has visited the site at the specified time should avoid mixing with people and monitor themselves for symptoms. If you experience symptoms, please contact NIHRACS on 22091.
 

Date	Location	Time
26.12.2021	Surf Comp – Bumboras Beach	08:30am – 09:45am
26.12.2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	09:45am – 12:00 noon
26.12.2021	Surf Comp – Munnas BBQ Area	15:00pm – 21:30pm
27.12.2021	Castaway	09:00am – 12:00 noon
27.12.2021	Governors	13:30pm – 14:30pm
27.12.2021	The Olive Café	11:30am – 13:00pm
27.12.2021	Norfolk Island Airport	13:10pm – 14:10am
28.12.2021	Saints Holiday Accommodation	09:00am – 12:00 noon
28.12.2021	Foodland’s Supermarket	17:00pm – 17:10pm
28.12.2021	P&R Grocers	15:00pm – 15:05pm
29.12.2021	Leagues Club	08:30am – 09:00am
29.12.2021	Governors	10:00am – 10:10am

 
Provision of services to people in self-isolation
 
Currently there are 87 close contacts of the two positive cases in self-isolation at their homes on the island. It is important that organisations that provide services to residences on the island do not inadvertently come into contact with those in self-isolation. To ensure that this does not happen it is recommended that tradesmen and others providing services on the island contact the Incident Controller on +6723 22222 to check that the property does not have someone undergoing self-isolation before visiting the premises.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
16:30
31 December 2021
EMT

UPDATED THURSDAY 30 DECEMBER 2021
MEDIA RELEASE
Identification of two positive cases of COVID-19 on island -Escalation level 2 requirements
 
This afternoon two positive cases of COVID-19 were identified by NIHRACS. The cases do not currently require hospitalisation and are in isolation and being monitored. Contact tracing associated with the cases is now underway and close contacts will be required to isolate.
 
EMT met this afternoon and agreed to move the island to level 2 of our Response Escalation Matrix. At level 2 the following are mandatory requirements: -
 

• Masks are required to be worn indoors by all staff and customers in Café’s, Restaurants, Retail, Personal Services, and non-essential businesses (tours etc.)
• Organised Sport and Recreation activities are suspended
• Social distancing rules must be maintained
• Density limits indoors reduced to one person per 4 sqm
• Groups reduced to a maximum of 150 people

 
The Response Escalation Matrix is available on the NIRC website at http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/emni-media-releases-2021.
 
With the virus present in the community and New Years Eve celebrations occurring tomorrow it is highly recommended that organisers of events consider postponing events involving large groups, either indoors or outdoors. Any events that do occur will have to adhere to social distancing requirements (wearing masks indoors, density limits, keeping 1.5m apart, maintaining registers of people who attend etc.). Police will be enforcing these requirements.
 
Anyone on the island who is experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should isolate themselves and contact NIHRACS. For those who are unvaccinated on the island and wish to do so should also contact NIHRACS.
 
EMT will be meeting daily and providing updated information to the community as it becomes available.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
17:00
30 December 2021
EMT

UPDATED MONDAY 27 DECEMBER 2021

MEDIA RELEASE

COVID-19 SWAB TESTS AT ST VINCENT’S (SYDPATH) CLINICS MUST CONTACT ST VINCENT’S.

EMNI has received the following advice from St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney.

If you had a Covid-19 swab test at any of the below St Vincent’s Hospital SydPath Covid-19 clinic on the 22nd, 23rd or 24th of December 2021, please contact St Vincent’s Hospital on 1800 943 123 for further advice.

If you have any Covid-19 symptoms, please isolate, and contact the Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service on 22091.
Clinics include:
· St Vincent's Hospital (East Sydney Community and Arts Centre) - 34 Burton Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2010
· Rushcutters Bay Walk-In Clinic - Sir David Martin Reserve, 1C New Beach Road, Darling Point, NSW, 2027
· Bondi Beach Drive-through Clinic - Park Drive North, Bondi Beach, NSW, 2026
· Merrylands Park SydPath Drive-through Clinic - Merrylands Park, Corner Burnett Street and Merrylands Road, Merrylands, NSW, 2160
· Fairfield Showground SydPath Drive-through Clinic - 443 Smithfield Road, Prairiewood, NSW, 2176
· Moree Respiratory Clinic - 140 Anne Street, Moree, NSW, 2400
· Carlingford Drive-through Clinic - Murray Farm Reserve, 71 Murray Farm Road, Carlingford, NSW, 2118

For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222. Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.

16:00
27 December 2021
George Plant
Emergency Controller

UPDATED FRIDAY 24 DECEMBER 2021

MEDIA RELEASE
Positive PCR test on a passenger at check in on today’s Sydney flight – passengers on the flight are required to wear masks for 14 days whilst on island.
 
A passenger on today’s flight from Sydney to the island returned a positive PCR test. The passenger and travelling family did not board the flight and are now in Sydney quarantine associated with NSW health requirements.
 
Since passengers in airports are required to always wear masks the risk to other passengers in the check in queu is regarded as minimal.
 
Health advice is that the passengers from the flight must wear a mask for the next 14 days whilst on island and in the community. For this reason, you may see more people wearing masks around the island.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
 
24 December 2021
George Plant
Emergency Controller
EMNI

UPDATED TUESDAY 21 DECEMBER 2021

Requirements for unvaccinated travellers to the island
 
EMT considered the policy associated with unvaccinated travellers to the island. With the states and territories on the mainland reopening unvaccinated travellers to Norfolk Island still represent the greatest risk for COVID 19 transmission or developing clinically severe disease.
 
The policy associated with all travellers who are not fully vaccinated with two doses of an approved vaccine is as follows: -

• They are required to have a negative PCR test in the 72 hours prior to arrival on the island, regardless of where they are coming from. Children under 12 years are not required to have a PCR test.
• They are required to undergo 7 days self-isolation on the island at their home or accommodation on arrival to NI.
• They are required to be COVID PCR tested on the 7^th day by NIHRACS and providing the test is negative will be released by the Police. (Depending on pathology lab capacity this test result may take up to 3 days to be available).
• Children under 12 years old will follow the vaccination status of their parents or guardians that they are travelling with. Children over the age of 12 will be treated as adults, requiring vaccination status declaration and PCR testing prior to arrival on NI.

 Requirements for returning residents from overseas, proposed PCR testing for travellers from all states and territories and proposed extension of the State of Emergency (Recovery)

EMT considered the current requirement for travellers who have been overseas. With the rapid transmission of the Omicron variant, it is expected by Qld Public health departments and the Norfolk Island Chief Health Officer that community transmission will be taking place within Qld within the coming days and therefore the requirement for COVID PCR tests will be extended to all travellers to Norfolk Island. COVID PCR testing for travellers from all States and Territories of Australia prior to arrival on Norfolk Island will be required as of Monday 20/12/21. Children under 12 years are not required to have a PCR test.
 
EMNIC has been requested to seek an extension of the current State of Emergency (Recovery) until the end of March 2022, this has now been granted and the State of Emergency (Recovery) will now expire on the 31 March 2021.
 
Summary of Norfolk Island’s COVID normal requirements
 
Below are the updated COVID normal requirements for the island.
 
Norfolk Island COVID Normal requirements (As of 16 December 2021)
 
Travel to the Island

• All travellers to the island require an Entry Pass
• As of Monday 20^th December 2021 COVID PCR testing will be required for all travellers from all states of Australia.
• PCR testing for pre-departure from Norfolk Island is not currently available, unless for urgent medical reasons, such as hospital admission/transfer of care.
•  PCR tests accepted are
  
  • PCR test taken in a laboratory or Government run Testing station. Please check your state health website for locations in your area.
  • Text message result for a PCR test is accepted, provided it has:  Date, Name, Result.
• Children under 12 do not need to be vaccinated as per National vaccination policy.
• Unvaccinated children, take on the vaccine status of the responsible parent/adult they are travelling with in terms of requirements to isolate.
• Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers are required to self-isolate at their home or accommodation for 7 days and return a negative PCR test on the 7^th day before being released by the Police.
• Travellers who have been overseas (unless a quarantine free bubble exists) must spend 14 days on the mainland before traveling to the island and return a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival on Norfolk Island, as do all travellers to NI.

Businesses and Premises

• Customers and visitors to premises are required to have customer registers (QR codes/paper based) and maintain this information for 3 months.
• Businesses on the island are required to have a COVID safe plan and operate according to the plan.
• Are required to encourage social distancing and maintain a density limit of 1 person/2 sqm indoors to a limit of 100 persons.

Public gatherings

• There is no restriction on Sport and Recreation, Weddings and Funerals and Religious services
• Density limits of 1 person /2 sqm apply indoors.
• Gatherings over 100 persons require an approved COVID safe plan by the Incident Controller.

 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Sergeant Mark Watson, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
16 December 2021
EMT

UPDATED - THURSDAY 2 DECEMBER 2021

 Travel to the Island

• All travellers to the island require an Entry Pass
• Travellers to the island from states and territories with ongoing community transmission are required to have a negative PCR test in the 72 hours prior to arrival. This currently applies to NSW, Victoria and the ACT. PCR tests are not required from Queensland, Tasmania, WA, SA or the NT. Children under 12 years are not required to have a PCR test.
• PCR testing for pre-departure from Norfolk Island is not currently available, unless for urgent medical reasons, such as hospital admission/transfer of care.
•  PCR tests accepted are
  
  • PCR test taken in a laboratory or Government run Testing station. Please check your state health website for locations in your area.
  • Text message result for a PCR test are accepted, provided it Has:  Date, Name, Result.
• Children under 12 do not need to be vaccinated as per National vaccination policy.
• Unvaccinated children, take on the vaccine status of the responsible parent/adult they are travelling with in terms of requirements to isolate.
• Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated travellers are required to self-isolate at their home or accommodation until released by NIHRACS.
• Travellers who have been overseas (unless a quarantine free bubble exists) must spend 14 days on the mainland before traveling to the island and return a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to arrival.

Businesses and Premises

• Customers and visitors to premises are required to have customer registers (QR codes/paper based) and maintain this information for 3 months.
• Businesses on the island are required to have a COVID safe plan and operate according to the plan.
• Are required to encourage social distancing and maintain a density limit of 1 person/2 sqm indoors to a limit of 100 persons.

Public gatherings

• There is no restriction on Sport and Recreation, Weddings and Funerals and Religious services
• Density limits of 1 person /2 sqm apply indoors.
• Gatherings over 100 persons require an approved COVID safe plan by the Incident Controller.

UPDATED - THURSDAY 25 NOVEMBER 2021

MEDIA RELEASE
Travellers to Norfolk Island will not have to pay for the COVID-19 test.
 
The Commonwealth Government confirmed yesterday that domestic travellers will not have to pay for COVID-19 tests, which states, and territories require for entry. This announcement can be found at https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-23/qld-coronavirus-covid-testing-fre....
 
Under our reopening requirements travellers from NSW, Victoria and the ACT from November 29 will require a negative PCR test for COVID-19 in the 72 hours before arriving on the island. At this point in time travellers from the other states and territories will not require the test. This however may change depending on the extent of COVID-19 circulating in these states and territories as they also reopen. The requirement to be fully vaccinated or undergo self-isolation on arrival until released by NIHRACS remains unchanged.
 
The flight to the island from both Sydney and Brisbane is a domestic flight originating from an international terminal. The test is therefore free providing it is undertaken at a state-run clinic and only a text message is required for the result. For entry into the island, we accept a text message result for the PCR test. Our requirements for travel are being made clear to the airlines to ensure that there are no problems for passengers boarding flights to the island.  NIHRACS does not currently have testing capacity to undertake COVID-19 PCR testing for travellers leaving Norfolk island, unless an urgent medical requirement.

 
Importance of COVID safe behaviours and practices as we reopen
 
From next week we will be receiving visitors from areas of the mainland where there is on-going community transmission of COVID-19. Measures have been put in place associated with entry to the island to reduce the chance that the virus comes to the island, however it will eventually reach here, and we will be relying on COVID safe behaviours to ensure its local spread is minimised and can be traced.
 
Customer registers is a key measure to ensure we can undertake contact tracing on the island and businesses need to maintain these registers. Where customers have registered coming to your business or office using either the NSW or Queensland QR systems this is acceptable. If they cannot do this, then it is important that you ensure they use your paper-based register system to register them.
 
Similarly, it is important that businesses on the island have COVID safe plans that are being used and are understood by staff. These plans will need to be used when your business has a COVID positive customer, staff member or is a public exposure site. COVID safe plans prepared under the templates available from either NSW or Queensland are approved for use on the island.
 
Both customer registers and approved COVID safe plans are a requirement of the current directions covering recovery operations. The Police will be commencing random checks of these to ensure that they are being used.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Detective Sergeant Glenn Elder, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222. Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
 
25 November 2021
George Plant
EMNI Controller

UPDATED - FRIDAY 19 NOVEMBER 2021

MEDIA RELEASE
Reopening requirements for visitors to Norfolk Island from NSW, Victoria, and the ACT from November 29.
 
From 29 November visitors will be able to travel to the island from NSW, Victoria, and the ACT. This date has been brought forward to correspond with the flight schedules from Sydney.
 
Fully vaccinated travellers from NSW, Victoria and the ACT will be required to have a negative PCR test for COVID-19 in the 72 hours prior to arriving on the island. This will be required as part of the declaration on the Entry Pass system and they may be requested to provide evidence of this on arrival. A PCR test will not be required for travellers from other states and territories.
 
As of 29 November, unvaccinated travellers from anywhere will be required to undertake self-isolation on the island until released by NIHRACS.
 
The requirements for travellers from the other states and territories remain unchanged.
 
The EMT will review these requirements prior to 17 December when Queensland is expected to have reached its next reopening threshold.
 
Norfolk Island COVID-19 Response Escalation Matrix with open borders.
 
When the island opens the borders to the states and territories that have circulating COVID-19 it will eventually result in the virus coming to the island. The measures that have been instituted (such as PCR testing) are to reduce the frequency of the virus introduction and control the likely spread in the community once it arrives. Most jurisdictions have similar escalation responses to contain the disease when an outbreak occurs, even after communities are highly vaccinated.
 
The Norfolk Island Response Escalation Matrix has now been released to provide the community with an understanding of the necessity to keep any spread of the disease in the community as low as possible.
 
For any questions about the COVID-19 response on Norfolk Island, please visit the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/covid-19-advice-norfolk-island in the first instance or contact Detective Sergeant Glenn Elder, IMT Incident Controller at IO-Norfolk-Island [at] afp.gov.au or +6723 22222.Alternatively, could you contact the Welfare Co-ordinator on 52777.
 
 
19 November 2021
EMT
 

 

Please read more information here.
 

Health enquiries: Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service (NIHRACS) +6723 22091