Further to Community Bulletin D17/2020, I would like to update the community on the status of the Digital Television Broadcast Service on Cocos (Keeling) Islands.

In recognition of the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) of Christmas Island (CI) and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands" (CKI) ongoing vulnerability to the risks posed by COVID-19, the Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories, the Honourable Nola Marino, MP, has approved the extension of the current states of emergency in both territories.

The Australian Government has facilitated the departure of an additional 35 Australians from Wuhan on New Zealand's (NZ) assisted departure flight, which departed early this morning.

The Australian Government will continue to ensure the safety and protection of the community on Christmas Island (CI) by upgrading rockfall fencing around Flying Fish Cove (FFC).

Following an annual review, changes to the electricity fees for the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) have been made to ensure they align to those in Western Australia (WA).

The Australian Government Department of Health is aware of cases of a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) associated with the region of Wuhan, Hubei Province China.

What is coronavirus?

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by a virus. Symptoms range from a mild cough to pneumonia. Good hygiene can prevent infection. Most people recover easily.

The Australian Government is ensuring appropriate preparation and response plans for the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT). Please follow the health advice from the Australian Government Department of Health and Indian Ocean Territories Health Service, as outlined below.

The following public and bank holidays will be observed on Christmas Island during 2021:

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) issued Tropical Cyclone Advice Number one in relation to Tropical Cyclone Mangga. As a result of this warning, the Cocos Emergency Management Committee has met and supported the recommendation from the Cocos (Keeling) Islands (CKI) Territory Controller to enact the Cyclone Action Plan.