Schoolies looking to celebrate the end of Year 12 have been told to find options in lieu of cancelled Schoolies Week events.
The state government has cancelled events which would traditionally occur at the Gold Coast.
Chief Health Officer Dr Jeannette Young said mass gatherings of young people over multiple days were ‘high risk’.
That means no beachfront concerts.
But that doesn’t mean celebrations are over. The rules for entertainment venues remain the same, and the rest of the state is open for Queensland travellers.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said parents needed to know their children’s safety comes first.
“We do not want them contracting or spreading COVID-19,” she said.
The Premier said school-leavers should still celebrate their achievements and take advantage of being able to travel throughout the state.
“Schoolies Week doesn’t have to be just one week,” the Premier said.
“We are Good to Go across Queensland to some of the most beautiful places in the world right here in our own backyard.”
Accommodation providers will be required to register guests as part of their COVID-safe plans.
Gatherings in residences including holiday units will be limited to no more than 10 people statewide from November 21 to December 11.
Rules for restaurants, pubs and clubs are unchanged.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Health Steven Miles said those heading for end-of-year celebrations will need to make sure they are following the rules.
“No one is saying you can’t celebrate the end of the school year,” the Deputy Premier said.
“Go away with your mates by all means but, sadly, we all have to keep COVID in mind.”
