Additional security systems, including thermal CCTV that triggers an alarm if returnees break out, will be rolled out to all Managed Isolation and Quarantine Facilities, Housing Minister Megan Woods announced on Chris Lynch’s radio show this morning.

The estimated $6 million rollout follows yesterday’s announcement of a 500-person boost to defence force personnel in manage isolation and quarantine facilities.

The Government will also be commencing a pilot of the COVID card with staff inside a managed isolation facility, with a view to a wider roll out in the coming months.

Speaking on Chris Lynch’s morning show this morning Minister Megan Woods said there will be additional thermal CCTV (night and day vision) around the perimeter of managed isolation facilities,with geo-fenced alarming. She said this technology would create an alarm when people move within a defined area.

Other measures including CCTV in public and exercise areas to monitor distance breaches, CCTV in accommodation corridors to monitor any breaches between rooms, Security Control Room/desk, audible alarms on fire exits, electronic access systems to restrict or track movement around a facility.

Megan Woods said “benefits include an increased ability to quickly detect and respond to perimeter breaches and incursions, and breaches of managed isolation and quarantine facility rules and security such as  physical distancing and use of PPE.

She said it will also enable better evidence collection to support enforcement action and if necessary police prosecution for non-compliance.

“Keeping COVID-19 at the border is a priority for the Government and these security enhancements are another tool in our toolbox to ensure returnees stay in the facilities and limit risk to the community.