Last updated: 27 May 2020 at 10.14am
The WA Police Commissioner and WA Government are working with the Australian Government to remove restrictions on access to biosecurity zones from 5 June, including the Kimberley region, parts of the Shire of East Pilbara and the Shire of Ngaanyatjarraku.
Restrictions on entering 274 remote Aboriginal communities will remain in place, while consultation continues with the communities to ensure they’re provided with ongoing support after 5 June.
From 18 May, some travel restrictions have been relaxed as part of WA’s COVID-19 roadmap.
People who live in the Kimberley region are now able to travel between local government areas of:
- Broome
- Derby-West Kimberley
- Wyndham-East Kimberley
- Halls Creek.
Current restrictions
Restrictions are still in place for access to the Kimberley, to protect the health and wellbeing of residents in the Kimberley and remote Aboriginal communities.
This means:
- The Kimberley is closed to tourists and visitors.
- People are unable to travel outside of the Kimberley region and return, unless it’s for an essential purpose.
Some exemptions apply for essential services and workers.
A 13 COVID hotline is available for members of the public to ask a range of COVID-19 related questions.
How do I apply for an exemption?
If you meet the exemption criteria, the quickest and simplest way to apply for an exemption is via the G2G PASS online form. Please submit your application at least 3 days prior to travel. By applying online, you can track your application status and will receive an email with the outcome of your application.
Alternatively, you can submit a paper-based entry into designated biosecurity areas form with supporting documentation.
For more information:
- G2G Pass for Travel Exemptions frequently asked questions
- Restrictions on travel to biosecurity areas - frequently asked questions
- Risk Management Plan: Entry into Designated Biosecurity Areas — Essential Activities
- Western Australian Designated Area Map
- Australian Designated Biosecurity Area Map
- Registered Determination
- Registered Amendment
For information on an exemption please email WABiosecurityEntryRequest@police.wa.gov.au
Restrictions for the designated areas are enforceable through emergency determination powers under the Biosecurity Act 2015 (Cth).
Breaching these restrictions is punishable by a fine of up to $63,000 for individuals and/or imprisonment of up to 5 years.
Travel to remote Aboriginal communities
The WA and Australian governments have partnered to implement restrictions for access to designated areas in Western Australia to protect the health and wellbeing of residents in the Kimberley and remote Aboriginal communities.
For more information visit Remote Aboriginal communities restrictions on entering.
