SA hopes to avoid any COVID-19 lockdown
South Australian authorities remain determined to avoid a COVID-19 lockdown across the state, with a range of local restrictions now in place amid increasing infections in other jurisdictions.
Premier Steven Marshall and Chief Public Health Officer Nicola Spurrier have urged people to get tested and vaccinated to help prevent the need for tougher measures.
"It is a dangerous situation with this Delta variant. We've got to take the pre-emptive stance," Mr Marshall said on Tuesday.
"We want to avoid a lockdown in South Australia.
"We've put some restrictions in place that we believe will help provide an added layer of protection.
"We think that by taking the proactive steps, we'll keep a lockdown at bay."
Professor Spurrier said while two new coronavirus cases were reported on Tuesday, both were returned travellers in hotel quarantine.
She said SA had so far not recorded any locally acquired cases related to any of the outbreaks in other states and territories.
Prof Spurrier echoed the premier on avoiding a lockdown but warned such a step would always depend on the prevailing situation, including the nature and location of new infections and how early any outbreak is picked up.
"I don't want to have a lockdown here. It's harmful, it's damaging for our economy, it's awful for the people of our state," she said.
Restrictions in place in SA include the mandatory use of masks in high-risk settings, including aged care facilities and hospitals. They are also highly recommended on public transport.
A new density arrangement of one person to every two square metres is being enforced in cafes, pubs, restaurants and other licensed venues while private gatherings, including weddings and funerals, are limited to 150 people.
People consuming food and drink at indoor venues must be seated.
Mr Marshall said it was hoped the new measures would only be required for a week.
It follows SA's move on Sunday to close its border to Queensland, WA, the NT and the ACT after previously locking out travellers from NSW.
