Australia is adopting measures being used in other parts of the world which health authorities say are key to reducing the rate of spread of coronavirus.
Slowing the coronavirus spread allows health services to better manage those infected with COVID-19.
In addition to personal hygiene tips like regular handwashing and avoiding handshakes, there's now an Australia-wide ban on non-essential gatherings of 500 people or more as part of what's known as social distancing.
This basically means reducing the amount of close contact you have with others by taking steps such as avoiding public transport - especially during peak times - and trying to keep a 1.5 metre distance between yourself and others.
Self-isolating is another tool and Australia's Deputy Chief Health Officer, Professor Paul Kelly, says the requirement is part of the country's effort to slow down the rate at which the virus spreads.
In attempting to slow down the rate of infections, the states and territories are trying to prevent what's happened in other countries, like Italy, where hospitals have been overwhelmed and unable to treat everyone needing care.
Self-isolation is compulsory for people who are suspected or confirmed to have coronavirus, and for all overseas arrivals - except pilots and cabin crew, who are asked to practise social distancing and personal hygiene.
On arrival at an Australian airport, international travellers are encouraged, where possible, to use personal transport to get home to minimise their contact with others.
Once at home or at their destination, the law requires people to stay there.
Brisbane GP Wendy Burton says that means there's no walking to the shops, the park or anywhere in public and no visitors or family gatherings.
Doctor Burton says people can have food and other supplies delivered and should collect them only after the delivery person has left.
To get a complete overview, it needs to be read in conjunction with the 'What you need to know’ and ‘Isolation guidance’ information sheets which are at this link:
