Cairns coronavirus hotline launched

Council has launched a dedicated, local hotline number for residents looking for information, advice and support about coronavirus in Cairns.

Residents can call the Cairns Local Coronavirus Hotline on 1300 396 102, between 8am and 5pm, seven days a week.

Mayor Bob Manning said the hotline operates from the Cairns Disaster Coordination Centre, so callers will speak to a person in Cairns with local knowledge.

“The hotline is manned by our Incident Management Team, the same team that responds to community requests during cyclones. They are very experienced in providing this service for our residents.”

Residents needing support in their own language can access the Hotline via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS).

Residents with complex communication needs can access the Hotline via the National Relay Service.

The hotline number is for coronavirus related enquiries. Council’s customer service number 1300 69 22 47 should still be used for everyday Council enquiries such as paying bills, reporting lost pets and requests for services.

Cr Manning said getting accurate, official information was crucial. “There’s a lot of misinformation and myths in the community, such as coronavirus can’t be transmitted in the tropics.

“Now’s not the time to rely on social media and group texts for your information. Head to Council’s website instead.”

Council’s website is being constantly updated with the latest local coronavirus information to further support the community.

The focus is on local information with links to State and Federal resources to make it easier for residents to keep themselves informed.

For coronavirus information, visit the Covid-19 updates web page.

Council’s key priorities remain the safety and wellbeing of staff and the community and continuity of services, as appropriate.