Thread by @abc730

Australia remains divided like never before, with each state and territory setting restrictions on who can cross their borders. #abc730 @AngeDonnellan #COVID19Aus #auspol

Even though SA has reported no community transmission of #COVID19 since April, Cass Leech was told she would have to go into two weeks quarantine if she wanted to attend her grandma’s funeral in Tasmania. #abc730 #auspol

“My uncle can get on a plane from Tasmania and come (to Adelaide) and he doesn’t have to self-isolate. Why isn’t that reciprocated? If he poses no risk to me, why do I pose a risk to him and Tasmania?” Cass Leech. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #auspol

“Epidemiologically there’s no reason why the #borders between South Australia and Tasmania shouldn’t be open. Neither place has community transmission.” Prof. @TonyBlakely_PI, epidemiologist. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #auspol

The Tasmanian government says protecting the state remains its top priority, but those who wish to travel there can apply for an exemption or fee waiver on compassionate grounds. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #borders #auspol

Tasmania isn’t expected to open its #borders until at least December and WA is shut off from the rest of the country indefinitely. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #auspol

“WA is really guarding their elimination strategy. I would say there’s little risk epidemiologically if they opened their #borders to SA, Tasmania and the Northern Territory.” Prof. @TonyBlakely_PI, epidemiologist. #abc730 #COVID19Aus #auspol

Cass Leech thinks the system should be more sensitive to people who are dealing with grief. “Have a heart basically. And understand how much this is affecting people.” #abc730 #COVID19Aus #borders #auspol