Timeline: How Australia responded to the coronavirus outbreak

  • First Case

    Australia records its first case, a Victorian-Chinese man in his 50s
  • Global Outbreak Declared

    The World Health Organization declares a public health emergency of international concern over the global outbreak of coronavirus.
  • Foreign Arrivals from China Denied

    The Australian government announces that foreign arrivals from mainland China will not be allowed entry into Australia.
  • Mass Gathering Banned

    Non-essential mass gatherings are banned for groups of more than 500 people outdoors or more than 100 indoors.
  • Mandatory Quarantine

    All arrivals into Australia are required to self-isolate for 14 days, either at home or in a hotel.
  • Closed Borders

    Australian borders are closed except for Australian citizens, residents and immediate family members.
  • Restrictions on Social Gatherings

    Pubs, licensed clubs and hotels (excluding accommodation), places of worship, gyms, indoor sporting venues, cinemas, casinos to close from midday Monday 23 March. Restaurants and cafes to offer takeaway only. Schools and supermarkets can remain open.
  • Tighter Restrictions

    Tighter restrictions on weddings, funerals, fitness classes, beauty salons, arcades, play centres and more.
  • Maximum of 2

    Public gatherings, excluding household members, have been reduced to a maximum of two people.
  • Stay Home

    Everyone is told to stay home unless you are: shopping for essentials, receiving medical care, exercising, or traveling to work or education.
  • Easter Closed

    During the Easter period, places of worship must remain closed to the public. Services will be streamed and only clergy and those formally involved in services or streaming are permitted to attend.
  • Large-Scale Testing

    Testing for coronavirus is now available to every Australian with mild respiratory symptoms including a cough and sore throat.
  • Numbers Dropping

    Active coronavirus cases have fallen in every state apart from Victoria