The COVID-19 pandemic is already challenging the seafarers and passengers who are left onboard cruise ships in Australian waters, after the country decided to ban all foreign cruise vessels as soon as possible. In mid-march, Australia along with New Zealand announced the ban of cruise ships arrivals at their foreign ports to avoid the spread of the disease, beginning for 30 days.
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Western Australia Premier Mark McGowan urged the cruise ship “Artania”, which is docked in Fremantle, to leave the port amid fears that more potential coronavirus cases may harm the state’s health system.
Oil and gas producer Santos Ltd announced it will cut its full-year spending and defer an investment decision on Barossa as oil prices plunge and the coronavirus outbreak dents business sentiment.
A total of 26 people onboard the cruise ship Ruby Princess have tested positive for COVID-19, a Sunday update by NSW Health reads. In this regard, NSW Health authorities introduced an increased testing regime for cruise ships at the ports.
The Australian Prime Minister announced the implementation of improved restrictions by midnight of March 15, for those entering from any overseas destination.
Following the COVID-19 outbreak, Australia and New Zealand decided to ban cruise ships arrivals at their foreign ports to avoid the spread of the disease.
The Maritime Union of Australia recently reported a failure in implementing adequate checks for the coronavirus infections on vessels entering Australian ports. At the moment, six people reported to have been infected by the virus in Australia.
The Gard P&I Club issued an alert drawing attention on Asian Gypsy Moth, the destructive forest pest spread via ocean-going vessels in international trade, highlighting that Australia has heightened vessel surveillance for AGM and in New Zealand is introducing new AGM requirements from 1 February 2018.
