THE NSW Government has announced ‘QR Cards’ to help all Australians stay COVID safe.

These cards are a hard-copy printed card with a unique QR code containing all your registered contact details.

When entering a business, a staff member will scan this card and your visit will be electronically recorded.

MidCoast Councillor Len Roberts welcomed this announcement, providing his first-hand experiences with COVID-19 check ins.

“Some people either forget to turn on their mobile data, are not sure of what to do, or even leave their phone at home.

“Even though there are electronic means at venues to help, people, especially the elderly and vulnerable, still are a little unsure what to do.

“It is great news that the NSW Government will introduce a new QR code check-in process for people without a smartphone,” Cr Roberts said.

COVID-19 check-ins at venues allow NSW Health’s contact tracing team to locate close or casual contacts in the event of a positive COVID-19 case.

Quick access to the information protects the community by allowing timely contact tracing.

Customers are able to apply for their personal COVID-19 check-in card by calling Service NSW on 13 77 88 or by registering online at service.nsw.gov.au.

The card will then be available to download and print out, or you can choose to have a plastic card mailed out.

This check-in method is only available at businesses that have a QR compatible device, and it will not be mandatory for all businesses to accept COVID-19 check-in cards.

 

By Tara CAMPBELL