Tracking bracelets, fines for not self-isolating

from the ABC

The West Australian Labor Government has  sought the power to electronically monitor people who fail to self-isolate, using tracking bracelets or in-home trackers.

Tampering with a device could result in 12 months in jail or a $12,000 fine.

That move follows a police clamp down on people leaving their home after being directed to self-isolate.

In addition, the Government would be asking Parliament to grant police the power to issue on-the-spot fines for failing to obey self-isolation or public gathering directives.

Those fines would be $1,000 for individuals and $5,000 for businesses, and followed WA moving to “stage three” COVID-19 restrictions that involved shutting down playgrounds and skate parks.

Premier Mark McGowan said the measures, along with a move to restrict gatherings to two people, were harsh but a reality.

“The idea that I am going to give someone a $1,000 fine for three people walking around together is abhorrent, but it’s necessary,” he said.