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Queensland joins NSW to FINALLY abolish public transport mask mandate – but Dan Andrews refuses to do the same in Victoria
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Queensland has become the third state to abolish mandatory masks on public transport within 24 hours.
Within hours, commuters in the Sunshine State will no longer have to wear face masks on public transportation, taxis, rideshares or commercial shuttles.
The same rules apply when waiting at a platform or stop, taxi rank or pick-up point.
It comes after South Australia and NSW lifted the Covid-19 restriction on Monday, a move NSW Prime Minister Dominic Perrottet described as common sense.
But one state that won’t follow suit is Victoria with Daniel Andrews standing firm.
Masks on public transport will no longer be necessary in NSW and Queensland from Wednesday
“The national cabinet has only recently made changes to the mandatory (isolation) periods,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
“We’re all looking at these rules, but I don’t have any announcements about masks today — but don’t worry, we’re investigating those matters and all of the COVID rules.”
Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory are the only remaining jurisdictions where masks must be worn on public transport.
Queenslanders are still required to wear a mask in health care facilities, residential aged care and disabled accommodation.
Masks are still recommended where you can’t maintain social distancing.
“I ask everyone to respect people’s individual rights to feel safe and to wear masks when they see fit,” said Queensland Health Minister Yvette D’Ath.
“We certainly encourage people to wear masks and for those who need it for security reasons, especially if they belong to the vulnerable group.”
Queenslanders are being reminded that masks will also be needed for the next five days after the Covid-19 isolation ends.
Mask wearing is now voluntary on public transport, except in Victoria and ACT, but it is recommended in certain situations
NSW will also scrap mandatory masks on all modes of transport, including taxis and taxi services, from Wednesday.
“Continuing to wear a mask in crowded areas will be especially important for people with underlying health conditions or who are otherwise vulnerable to Covid-19 infection,” said NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard.
“Wearing a mask in these environments not only protects the people around you, but also reduces the risk of infection.”