Lines extend down the block from grocery stores across the ACT and across the border in Queanbeyan, as local residents panic buy in response to the announcement of a seven-day lockdown from 5pm tonight, after a positive case of COVID-19 has been active in the community.
At the press conference at 12.15pm today where the lockdown was announced, ACT Health Minister, Rachel Stephen-Smith, urged Canberrans to “be safe, and be kind” and there is “no need for panic buying”.
“Be thoughtful about the way that you respond to what will no doubt be a very difficult situation for people in our community.”
Ms Stephen-Smith reminded Canberrans that supermarkets will remain open, and that shopping for essential groceries and supplies will continue to be allowed for the duration of the lockdown.
“This is a very serious situation. Stay calm and be thoughtful about your actions,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
The Canberra Outlet Centre in Fyshwick is closed for decontamination, as the man found positive with COVID-19 visited numerous stores at the location last Sunday. The full list of exposure locations can be found here.
In an update to members, the Canberra Business Chamber said that general retail will be closed, and hospitality venues will only be able to operate takeaway services. Retail businesses that have to remain open have been asked to “actively prevent any browsing” in their stores.
“Now more than ever, the use of the Check In CBR app is critical to support contact tracing,” the Chamber advised.
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