From 11.59pm on Friday 9 July face masks will no longer be a mandatory requirement when using public transport.
Although no longer mandatory, use of face masks is still encouraged when in spaces where physical distancing is not possible for people 13 years and over – this includes on public transport.
CMET’s highest priority is the safety of our customers and our workforce.
Increased cleaning is being carried out each day across the network. Hard surfaces across bus interchanges and light rail stops are cleaned daily and light rail vehicles are cleaned daily, with high touch points cleaned at the Alinga Street stop – this includes all internal surfaces such as MyWay readers, poles, door buttons and seats.
To help keep everyone safe when travelling on public transport please consider the following.
FACE MASKS MANDATORY IN ACT (including public transport) from midnight SUNDAY 27 JUNE 2021
This includes on-board buses and light rail and at stops and stations (public transport waiting areas).
A 48-hour transition period for the community will occur to allow people to adapt to these new requirements.
There are currently no active cases in the ACT. This is a proactive measure to support the strengthened travel restrictions currently in place.
Do not use public transport if you are not wearing a mask.
Who does NOT need to wear a face mask?
- Persons under 13 years,
- A person with a physical or mental health illness or condition, or disability that makes wearing a fitted face covering unsuitable including for example a skin condition, an intellectual disability, autism, or trauma.
Read more about mask requirements in the ACT
Travel at quieter times
Use of public transport in off peak periods where possible is encouraged to help avoid crowding. This helps with physical distancing onboard vehicles and at stops and stations. It’s also cheaper.
Check our online capacity tool for guidance on the quietest times to travel on our busiest services – Rapids 2-10 and light rail, during the week.
The updated network introduced earlier this year provides more services off peak to help you spread out. You can use the journey planner to plan your trip before you leave.
Spread out on board and at stops and stations
Help us with physical distancing on and around the network.
- Where possible please maintain a 1.5 metre distance from others at stops and stations.
- Spread out on board and leave at least one seat between you and other passengers when you can.
Practice good hygiene
Practice good hygiene when travelling on public transport and please DO NOT use public transport if you are feeling unwell. This means:
- washing your hands regularly for 20 to 30 seconds
- avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue or coughing into your elbow
- hand sanitiser is a convenient choice and can help you avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others
- hand sanitiser does not replace washing your hands after using the bathroom.
For more on protecting yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19, see protecting yourself.
Combine public transport use and exercise
Walking, running or riding to work or school can help reduce pressure on our public transport and road networks. Consider this as part of your daily commute – part way or all the way if you can! Find out more about active travel to work.
Use the COVIDSafe App
The COVIDSafe App uses mobile phone technology to automate some aspects of the contact tracing that state and territory health officials are already doing manually. To download the app, please visit the Australian Department of Health’s website.