Northern Australia Committee public hearings cancelled amid health concerns

Sam JonesNorth West Telegraph
Camera IconSYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 13: Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks during a press conference announcing that mass gatherings of 500 people or more are cancelled from Monday 16th of March. The government is also recommending against all overseas travel. The press conference followed the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting on 13th of March, 2020 in Sydney, Australia. The usual agenda for the state, territory and local government leaders has been set aside to discuss measures to stop further spreading of COVID-19 in Australia. (Photo by Brook Mitchell/Getty Images) Credit: Getty Images

The Northern Australia Committee has cancelled planned public hearings across WA’s north due to mounting concern over the Coronavirus.

Hearings were scheduled in Broome, Karratha, Newman, Port Hedland and Perth next week.

The decision comes after Prime Minister Scott Morrison banned all public gatherings of more than 500 people and recommended precautions be made for other gatherings.

The hearings were part of an inquiry into the opportunities and challenges of the engagement of traditional owners in the economic development of Northern Australia.

It is unclear whether the meetings will be rescheduled, with the inquiry closing date of March 31 approaching.

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