Tasmania continues to be one of the safest places in the world. I’m very grateful that I live here.

We had an initial lockdown when the pandemic began but restrictions eased in June last year. 

We are covid free here. There have been no community transmission cases since May 2020. A few arrivals have tested positive, but the virus has not spread locally.

So, life is relatively free and easy.

The only places where we have to wear a mask are airports and ferry terminals, on flights or on the ferry to the mainland. Also, at festivals and some sport events, where gathering limits still apply. 

Everything is open as usual, retail, restaurants, gyms, night clubs, cinemas, theatres, casinos, weddings, household get togethers. Hand sanitiser is everywhere and actively encouraged.

We have to use the “Check In Tas” app when entering any shops, businesses, events, a taxi or public transport. It is a new habit to scan the QR code with our phones or write our name and contact details in a book at the entrance of any establishment. If or when covid does come to Tassie these track and trace capabilities are ready.

The main covid impact still in place are our border restrictions. Everyone travelling to Tasmania must complete an entry form before the journey. Travel from “high risk areas” within the country is denied. Anyone breaking this rule is fined and immediately placed in hotel quarantine. Tasmanian residents travelling from medium risk areas are allowed to return but must quarantine at home for 14 days.

Australia’s international borders remain closed. More about that in my next post.