Face Masks Will No Longer Be Mandatory in Most Situations in Queensland From April 15

In a bid to contain the last coronavirus outbreak, the Queensland Government mandated the wearing of masks across Greater Brisbane in late March, and then expanded some face covering rules statewide, too. The requirements were given a slight tweak when April started, but wearing a mask has been part of daily Queensland life throughout this month so far — until 6am hits tomorrow, Thursday, April 15, that is.

At the moment, if you're spending time indoors somewhere other than your house, you need to wear a mask. They must be worn in all indoor spaces other than your home, all indoor workplaces unless it is unsafe to do so, on public transport, in taxis and ride share vehicles, and outdoors when social distancing isn't possible.

But, from 6am on Thursday, April 15, covering your face will no longer required unless you're at an airport or you're flying. The Queensland Government still advises that folks should carry a mask with them, though, to use in crowded places when you're not able to social distance.

The change was announced by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk alongside a heap of other easing restrictions. Queenslanders will be able to have 100 people over to their houses, gather outdoors in groups of any size, dance both indoors and outdoors, and stand up to eat and drink at bars and clubs, too.

The usual requests regarding social distancing, hygiene and getting tested if you're feeling even the slightest possible COVID-19 symptoms still apply, though — as they have since March last year.

For more information about the status of COVID-19 in Queensland, head to the QLD COVID-19 hub and the Queensland Health website.