Number: A35/2021
Date: 15 September 2021
Due to the continuing COVID-19 situation on mainland Australia, the Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories, the Honourable Nola Marino MP, is extending the declared states of emergency (SoE) in Christmas Island (CI) and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands (CKI) up until 17 December 2021.
While the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT) have no known cases of COVID-19, the Australian Government is committed to the ongoing protection and support of our communities, with the health and wellbeing of residents remaining our first priority.
We have had an excellent response across CI and CKI for the COVID-19 vaccination, and I thank every resident who has rolled up their sleeve to get vaccinated. While the vaccine is our best defence against COVID-19, it is just one part of keeping the community safe and healthy. It is important for you to continue to wash your hands regularly, maintain physical distancing, stay home when unwell, and get tested when you have any COVID-19 symptoms.
Our ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the IOT has been successful, and I would like to again thank the IOT COVID-19 subcommittee including the Territory Controllers for their hard work and commitment in our ongoing response.
We will continue to monitor the pandemic situation and responses across Australia. As we move closer to the 80% vaccination target across Australian states and territories, we will continue to review arrangements in place for the IOTs to ensure fit for purpose responses are in place to protect our communities.
Thank you for your support and commitment to keeping the IOT COVID-19 safe.
Natasha Griggs
Administrator of Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands