An update from the Chief Executive, Department for Energy and Mining
South Australia is currently responding to an outbreak of COVID-19 cases described as the ‘Parafield cluster’. SA Health, through contact tracing over recent days, has identified potential exposure locations and times across metropolitan Adelaide, which present an elevated risk of exposure to South Australians.
An up-to-date list of these locations can be accessed at SA Health contact tracing, which includes details on the public action required, including who should self-quarantine, who should monitor their health for COVID-19 symptoms and what steps to take should any symptoms present themselves.
Due to the ongoing uncertainty about the extent of the Parafield cluster, jurisdictions across the country in the past 24 hours have implemented tighter border controls for inbound travellers from South Australia.
South Australian companies with outbound workers are advised to monitor national travel arrangements. Details of those arrangements can be found at the South Australia COVID-19 responsibilities and restrictions web page.
Of particular relevance to the energy and mining sector is that contact tracing for this cluster has led to the instigation of COVID-19 protocols at two sites in SA’s resources and energy sector over the past 24 hours. On-site contact tracing, precautionary testing and isolation arrangements have been put in play at both sites in line with their approved COVID plans.
The first cluster to emerge in South Australia since April has led the South Australian Government to introduce new density restrictions that affect some public activities such as sporting events, weddings, funerals and indoor venues. These new restrictions reinforce the need for vigilance to avoid complacency around COVID Safe health protocols such as proper hygiene and physical distancing requirements. It also puts a spotlight on personal COVID Safe behaviours, and emphasises the importance of the ongoing readiness of all businesses and families to respond effectively to outbreaks.
Given the continued excellent results from Melbourne, South Australia is trending toward further relaxation of the remaining border controls for inbound travellers from Victoria. Positive announcements in this regard are expected in coming weeks should the trend continue. For the time being South Australia’s focus will be squarely on responding to this cluster, and governments and companies nationally will be considering their preparedness for what continues to be a dynamic environment.
With any questions please contact Martin.Reid@sa.gov.au at the Department for Energy and Mining.
Stay well
Paul Heithersay
Chief Executive
Department for Energy and Mining
Monday 16 November 2020
Read more on the Department for Energy and Mining COVID-19 response