The main reason for wearing a face mask is to protect other people. If a person is unknowingly infected with COVID-19, wearing a mask reduces the chance of them passing the virus on to others.

Physical distancing is important for everyone, particularly for people at increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness due to older age or chronic health conditions. If you cannot maintain physical distance, wearing a mask is an important protective measure.

There are situations when wearing a mask is mandatory in Tasmania. The mask must cover your mouth and nose.

It is a good idea to keep a small supply of masks at home for yourself and other household members in case you are required to wear a mask in some public spaces at short notice e.g. in areas where masks can help reduce community risk or in the event of local cases.

View resources and frequently asked questions about masks.

Read about the different situations where you might be required to wear a mask: