Patrons at Tasmanian venues where ‘stand up drinking’ is permitted will need to be fully vaccinated from Monday December 6.
The new public health rule will extend to staff at these locations from December 15, said Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Sarah Courtney today.
“The requirement to be fully vaccinated applies to pubs, clubs and events or areas of these locations where alcohol is served and patrons are not exclusively seated. It does not apply to restaurants, cafes, clubs or licensed venues where patrons are required to be seated,” she said.
“Additionally, it does not apply to guests at weddings and funerals, sports or community clubs, cinemas or stadiums.”
Where venues have multiple areas separated by a wall, vaccinated entry is only required for entry into the bar section of the venue, for example a hotel with a separate bar, restaurant and bottle shop, the Minister explained.
Where venues change from seated service to bar service during the course of the day, vaccinated entry is not required where seated service only applies.
“Importantly, responsibility is on individuals to ensure they do not enter a premises or an event without being fully vaccinated,” said Ms Courtney.
“There is an obligation for licence holders, venue managers and event organisers to identify themselves as a premises subject to the vaccinated entry requirement through a sign visible to patrons.
“However, there is no obligation for business owners or event organisers to monitor or enforce compliance, but they can choose to check vaccination status and refuse entry as part of their own workplace risk management.”
She said police may enforce compliance through random spot checks at venues and events, where they will be able to request evidence of vaccination, and can fine individuals for breaches.
