FEDERAL authorities say ships from China will face added scrutiny in coming days as part of efforts to prevent an outbreak of coronavirus in Australia.
A spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment said they were working with the Australian Border Force and the Department of Health to develop information for port operators about the implementation of new travel restrictions on commercial vessels.
“Enhanced screening measures will apply to vessels departing from China from 1 February 2020 with the first vessels meeting this criteria expected to arrive in Australia as early as 10 February 2020,” the spokesperson said.
“DAWE is working with ABF, Health, Infrastructure and AMSA. The first vessel is expected to arrive on or around 11 February 2020.”
The spokesperson said state port authorities and industry representatives were being consulted in the development and implementation of the measures. The Department of Health is also developing a fact sheet for port workers.
