COVID Update: Directions effective 17 December 2021

To support the industry throught this time, we have prepared a resource which provides:

• an overview of the restrictions linked with vaccination status;
• an overview of the Queensland Border restrictions;
• changes to requirements for close and casual contacts; and
• helpful resources and links to the relevant Public Health Directions and where you can go for further support.

The specific details are outlined in the Public Health Directions, and we would encourage you to read these to gain a better understanding of the intent behind these restrictions.

While this is a lot of information, we want to assure you that both vaccinated and unvaccinated people can still participate in many sport, active recreation, and fitness activities including indoor and outdoor events. 

These are however some aspects of our industry that are impacted by the restrictions whereby vaccination is a requirement of entry:

• Bowling alleys captured as indoor entertainment venues
• Major Stadiums with more than 5000 patrons
• High risk settings including education settings
• Commercial recreation organisation operating tourism experiences 
• Hospitality venues such as a cafe, clubs, restaurants and bars (licensed areas) that form a part of indoor sports centres, community halls and clubhouses. 

Whilst the Public Health and Social Measures Direction has been released, we understand your organisation may still have question as to how these requirements relate directly to your specific activity. The Department is currently seeking further clarity on several issues including venues where licensed and hospitality areas are not standalone areas, or a facility that could also be considered an indoor entertainment venue. 

Please know that the sport, recreation and fitness industry is one of many industries working with Queensland Health to gain a clearer picture of COVID-19 restrictions moving forward. We thank you in advance for patience. 

Businesses, venues and organisation can self-impose entry requirements however this is a business decision. Whether your organisation makes this choice, or you are required to do so under the Public Health and Social Measure Direction, the onus is on the person enterting to show proof of their vaccination status. You are not expected to act as the police and if a person is refusing to comply, you can call the police for assistance.

With the relaxation of the Queensland border, increased numbers of COVID positive cases are expected in Queensland. Local Public Health Units (PHU) across Queensland will support your organisation should you be issued a contact tracing alert. The local PHU will conduct a risk assessment to determine what level of local response is required and work closely with you to develop the safest management plan for your organisation and the community.

From 1 January 2002 there will be changes to what you need to do when you come into contact with a COVID-19 case. The Queensland Government has developed guidance material to help organisations plan and managed situations where COVID-19 positive people have been at their venue. We encourage you to keep an eye on the advice and resources available over the holiday period.

If you require immediate assistance or advice, you can contact 13 42 68 for COVID-19 related enquires. Alternatively, you can email the Sport and Recreation Team via email at sr.covid19@atis.qld.gov.au who are available Monday to Friday for assistance. Your State Level Organisation can also provide advice specific to your activity. 

If you require immediate assistance or advice, you can contact 13 42 68 for COVID-19 related enquiries.  Alternatively, you can email the Sport and Recreation Team via email at sr.covid19@dtis.qld.gov.au who are available Monday to Friday for assistance.  Your State Level Organisation can also provide advice specific to your activity. 

On behalf of Sport and Recreation, I wanted to thank you for the amazing job you’ve done to date. We know this has been another difficult year, but your commitment to keeping the Queensland community safe is certainly recognised.