Police will be patrolling holiday hotspots over the Easter break to ensure people are doing the right thing to keep Tasmanians safe.

“Our message to everyone is to please stay home. Don’t go to your shacks – you will be bringing unnecessary risk to those small communities such as the East Coast, Bridport, Boat Harbour and Bruny Island,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said.

“This Easter, if you are away from your primary residence and try to catch the Bruny Island ferry or go to your shack and you don’t have a valid excuse, you will not only be turned around, but you could be charged and face a substantial fine.”

Police are reminding motorists to avoid all non-essential travel and to anticipate random road safety spot checks on our roads this Easter long weekend.

“Even though there will be fewer vehicles on the road, targeted breath and drug testing and high-visibility patrolling will continue over the Easter break,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Higgins said.

“Our officers can be anywhere, anytime targeting those who do risk their lives, and the lives of others.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Higgins said that Tasmanians must remain in their primary residence unless they are accessing essential services such as food or medical supplies.

“This means you need to stay home unless absolutely necessary and you need to avoid travelling between regions. Unless it’s essential, don’t travel outside the municipality in which you live.”

“Don’t be surprised if you get stopped by police and asked why you’re away from your primary residence over the Easter break. If you’re at your shack, expect a knock on your door from police asking why you’re there.”

For those people worried about security of their properties, be reassured that police will be undertaking additional patrols in those areas.

“If you need to do essential shopping – remember to keep a physical distance from others.

“Do not be complacent about the restrictions.  The measures have been implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19 and police will be enforcing them.

“By now, everyone knows what they must do.  If you have any questions, visit the coronavirus website.”

Under the Emergency Management Act, there is a penalty of up to 100 penalty units ($16,800) or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months for failing to comply with a lawful requirement or direction of an emergency management worker.