Police enforcement of COVID-19 health directions

ACT Policing is significantly stepping up monitoring compliance of quarantine and self-isolation arrangements in line with the ACT’s Health Directions.

The number of people in quarantine or self-isolation in hotels or at home is increasing daily as the ACT Government implements measures in response to the Victorian outbreak.

The ACT Policing COVID-19 Taskforce has stood-up an additional Territory Targeting Team to conduct more spot-checks and respond to calls from the public reporting non-compliance. The two other Territory Targeting Teams will continue to police Canberra’s night life district and enforce social distancing requirements.

Since 1 July 2020, ACT Policing has conducted more than 60 spot-checks across 27 locations and assisted health authorities manage hotel quarantine arrangements.

Chief Police Officer for the ACT Neil Gaughan said the health and safety of all Canberrans was important to ACT Policing.

“The situation is changing daily and it is critical that people follow health directions to prevent an outbreak like we’re seeing in Victoria,” CPO Gaughan said.

“For people in quarantine or self-isolation if you haven’t already seen a police officer at your front door, you are likely to see one soon.

“There are no excuses now. We’ve been living with COVID-19 for several months and we are all aware of our personal responsibilities.

“While police officers have discretion when enforcing laws, ACT Policing will take a no tolerance approach to people who are not following quarantine or self-isolation directions.

“Those who fail to comply with these rules should know they’re not just risking enforcement action, they’re risking someone’s life.”

In March, ACT Policing established a planning Taskforce to prepare its front-line resources to be in a position to respond as demand due to COVID-19 increased and continue providing a 24/7 police response to the community.

“Looking forward, the community can be assured police are prepared, and have precautionary measures and plans that can be used at any time,” CPO Gaughan.

“But I would rather Canberrans continue to be vigilant and do what they can to stop the spread of the virus. We are in a strong position, and the best way we can try and keep this is by following the latest health advice.”

For all general enquiries - including to make a report of non-compliance of public health directions with referrals to ACT Health Protection Services, ACT Policing or Access Canberra Fair Trading - you can contact the COVID-19 Helpline on 6207 7244 (8am -8pm, 7 days a week) or online form available here. For police assistance call 131 444 and only contact Triple Zero for emergencies.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au