At various times during Covid, state and territory governments have made it a requirement for people to wear a face mask in certain settings.
Different rules and exemptions are set out in relevant public health orders which is accessible by following the links below:
- If I have a medical condition or a disability, do I have to wear a face mask?
- If a medical condition or disability prevents me from wearing a face mask, can I be refused access or service by a shop owner or service provider?
- Do I have to provide a medical certificate to prove I can’t wear a mask due to my medical condition?
- Do I need to wear a face mask in the workplace? Can my employer require me to wear a face mask, even if I have a medical reason not to?
What to do if you are refused access or service?
If this happens and you want to make a discrimination complaint against a shop owner or service provider under the Disability Discrimination Act, you will need to show there is a clear link between your medical condition or disability and your inability to wear a face mask. If you are not sure if you have a sufficiently clear link or lawful excuse, seek advice from your GP.
If you do not have a medical condition or disability that affects your ability to wear a face mask and are refused entry or service by a shop owner or service provider because you are not wearing a mask, the refusal of entry or service will not be disability discrimination.
For more information go to: www.humanrights.gov.au