New high caseload COVID-19 rules from 8 February

Laws, regulations & standards

Premier Mark McGowan announced on Monday 7 February that WA's new high caseload settings will come into effect from Tuesday 8 February.

The settings include a new close contact definition, new testing and isolation protocols and mandatory reporting of positive rapid antigen test (RAT) results.

They were first publicised in January.

The changes effective from Tuesday 8 February

  • New close contact definition
  • New testing and isolation guidelines
  • Specific school and childcare centre close contact protocols
  • Mandatory positive rapid antigen test (RAT) registration

There is no longer a casual contact definition, meaning that only close contacts will be subject to automatic testing and isolation.

For the new close contact definition and the testing and isolation rules, see the WA Government's official information High COVID caseload settings under WA’s Updated Transition Plan.

Critical workers will be able to work if they have no symptoms, test negative and wear a mask. See the categories of critical workers.

To register a positive RAT result, use the 'Rapid Antigen Test' link on the COVID-19 testing page of the HealthyWA website.

People who test positive can use sick leave and annual leave while isolating. For people without any leave owing to them, the WA Government offers the WA COVID-19 Test Isolation Payment.

In addition, starting from Wednesday February 9, quarantine for approved international and interstate travellers will reduce to seven days.