Banana Shire Council has received a number of inquiries from residents in respect to the Queensland Governments proposed COVID-19 arrangements effective from 17 December 2021.

COVID-19 presents a significant health risk to many Queenslanders and Council strongly recommends that all residents get vaccinated. Vaccination minimises both the risk of transmission between community members and the severity of symptoms for those who contract the disease. Notwithstanding this, Council’s view is that community members should have the freedom to choose whether to get vaccinated or not.

Council notes that the proposed restrictions on unvaccinated residents announced by the Queensland Government from 17 December 2021 will present challenges to local businesses in terms of staffing and managing operations. Council also recognises that the proposed restrictions will increase frustration in unvaccinated residents, many of whom have valid health or strong philosophical reasons for not wanting to be vaccinated.

Banana Shire Council as part of the Central Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils has written to the Queensland Government seeking a deferral of the new restrictions to allow residents and businesses more time to prepare and to reduce confusion over the Christmas period. This deferral will also provide an opportunity for the State to better assess the risk of transmission after the State borders are opened.

Council respects people’s right to choose what medication they take but strongly recommends those residents who can get vaccinated, do so.