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Mataranka Removed from Roper Gulf Designated Biosecurity Area

Office of the Chief Minister

Statement on removal of Mataranka from Roper Gulf Designated Biosecurity Area from Member for Arnhem, Selena Uibo.

I heard loudly and clearly from my constituents in Mataranka that their town’s inclusion in the restricted biosecurity area was not practical and I made strong representations that the Territory Labor Government raise the issue with the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt for the restriction to be reviewed.

I am pleased that the Federal Government has acted quickly to make this change, recognising Mataranka as a town, rather than a remote community, and enabling residents to once again quickly and easily get in and out of Katherine for their daily needs.

I would like to acknowledge the Hon. Warren Snowden MP Federal Member for Lingiari and NT Senator for the Northern Territory Malarndirri McCarthy for their shared advocacy in this space.

I thank the residents of Mataranka and Mulgan for their understanding of the issue, and for their patience, as we are all learning as we go in these unprecedented circumstances and all levels of government are working together to monitor the arrangements we have in place to reduce community transmission of COVID-19.

The Territory Labor Government has implemented tough measures, including strict border control and enforced quarantine for interstate and international arrivals, to prevent the spread of coronavirus to our vulnerable remote communities.

The most important message we can give to all Territorians right now to continue to prevent the spread of coronavirus, is to stay at home, and to our remote residents, in particular, the safest place for you is in your community.

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