WA businesses are facing mixed messages about when, and to which states, WA’s ‘controlled border’ arrangements will apply.

Premier Mark McGowan has backtracked on his October 30 announcement to grant “very low risk” status to destinations once they record 28 days without COVID-19 community transmission.

This would allow access to those incoming state’s passengers without 14-day mandatory quarantines. 

Instead, Premier McGowan told The West Australian that he would “consider” offering low-risk access status to states after the 28-days.

CCIWA CEO Chris Rodwell says businesses are grappling with mixed messages and has called for clear and transparent criteria.

“For WA businesses, the difference between “very low risk” and “low risk” is critical. 

“Ultimately it is the mandatory 14-day quarantine period that stifles tourism and advance bookings, disrupts supply lines, generates shortages of skilled and unskilled workers, and creates a competitive disadvantage in favour of businesses elsewhere. A nebulous approach to applying these rules would not inspire confidence. 

“Many businesses are simply pressing pause on key operational decisions, because border decisions appear to be more art than science.”

Premier Mark McGowan says he is risk-averse and wants to protect WA’s economy.

For more, read CCIWA’s full statement here.