Two Canberra businesses fined for breaching COVID19 health directions

Two Canberra restaurants have been fined $5000 after breaching COVID-19 health directions.

ACT Policing has been conducting compliance patrols with Access Canberra and ACT Health. Together, officers support the many businesses working hard to meet the new requirements.

Many businesses have been inspected several times in the past few months to ensure the safety and protection of staff and patrons.

Superintendent Stephen Turnbull from ACT Policing’s COVID-19 Taskforce said the majority of businesses were doing the right thing.

“We have generally found businesses are eager to work with us if there are any areas of concern and quickly take all the steps needed to ensure compliance with the health directions,” Superintendent Turnbull said.

“Businesses have their staff and patrons at front of mind because they’re aware the community expects they are doing all they can for their safety.

“The businesses that are doing the right thing deserve our thanks because this is a hard time for everyone.”

This week, ACT Policing issued criminal infringements to two Canberra restaurants for exceeding the allowable occupancy after several interactions with officers and officials.

On 4 September, one restaurant had 53 patrons when the establishment has a maximum capacity of 43 diners.

On 5 September, another restaurant had more than 49 patrons when the establishment has a maximum capacity of 25 people.

Including this week’s additional fines, ACT Policing has issued six criminal infringements (three business and three individuals), 15 cautions and made one arrest for breaches of COVID-19 Public Health Directions.

“During inspections, our primary concern is the maximum capacity limit being adhered to,” Superintendent Turnbull said.

“The rules are in a place for a reason, and ACT Policing will continue to work with ACT Health and Access Canberra to ensure business compliance.

“We also encourage businesses and patrons to use the new Check In CBR app which will help contact tracing obligations under the Public Health Directions.”

For all general enquiries - including to make a report of non-compliance, contact the COVID-19 Helpline on 6207 7244 (8am -8pm, 7 days a week) or online available here. For police assistance call 131 444 and only contact Triple Zero (000) for emergencies.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 5126 9070, act-police-media@afp.gov.au