Coronavirus

The Hon. F. PANGALLO (15:06): If they refuse to undertake that test, what will happen to them?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (15:06): I certainly don't want to pre-empt any decision by the Chief Public Health Officer, but I would not be surprised if a public health officer put an individual order on them under either the Public Health Act or under the Emergency Management Act. Under both pieces of legislation, there are severe penalties for noncompliance.

Let's be clear: the law that was passed by this parliament made it clear that the right of individuals to refuse medical treatment, which is normally respected, needs to give way to public health. We do not have the right to endanger the health of others by refusing to be tested and that includes international arrivals just as much as citizens within this state.

The PRESIDENT: Supplementary question, the Hon. Mr Pangallo.