COVID-19 Policies 

The BGDA is committed to protecting the health and wellbeing of our community. Events that are hosted by the BGDA will operate in accordance with the COVID Safe Event Checklist.

The following principles and rules will be implemented at all BGDA events: 

1.  Physical Distancing 
  • Physical distancing of 1.5 metres should be observed where possible, unless people are from the same household group. 
  • Each student is permitted a maximum of two supporters in the debate room (not including coaches and coordinators). 
  • Students will not be permitted to shake hands with other students at the end of the debate. Occupant density 
  • The maximum occupant density is 1 person per 2 square metres for both indoor and outdoor areas. 
2. Contact Information
  • The BGDA and host schools will keep contact information about all students, staff and other attendees for contact tracing purposes for a period of 56 days, unless otherwise specified.
  • This information includes name, phone number, email address, and the date and time period of patronage. 
  • If requested, this information must be provided to public health officers within a stated time. 
  • The information should be securely stored, not used for any other purpose and deleted after 56 days
3. Cleaning and Hygiene 
  • Hand washing facilities will be provided for all attendees and staff including clean running water, liquid soap and paper towels. If hand washing facilities are not readily available, an appropriate alcohol-based hand sanitiser will be provided at regular intervals. 
  • Frequently touched areas and surfaces (including shared equipment and tools, desks and chairs) will be cleaned at the end of every debate with disinfectant
4. Health Screening
  • All students, staff and other attendees should be asked the following screening questions, and they must not be permitted to attend the event if they: 
  • Are unwell
  • Are an active COVID-19 case
  • Have been overseas or to a declared COVID-19 hotspot in the last 14 days 
  • Have been in close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case. ​