Queensland's coronavirus tally has reached 397 as the government promises more intensive care beds, tripling the crisis call centre and employing more health professionals.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Health Minister Steven Miles says the state has so far conducted more than 37,300 tests for coronavirus, of which 78 were positive overnight, and taken 43,000 calls relating to COVID-19.
Overall, one in four coronavirus tests in Australia had been conducted in Queensland, he said.
"That is amongst, if not the, highest rate of testing anywhere in the world," he said.
Earlier, Treasurer Jackie Trad pledged $1.2 billion for the health sector, which Mr Miles said would be used to ramp up testing, lift the call centre capacity from 300 to 1600 seats, and boost the number of doctors and nurses.
There would also be more fever clinics and hospital wards would be expanded.
"There are 27 public fever clinics open and this funding will allow us to open more," he said.
The funding increase comes ahead of Queensland's border closing at midnight on Wednesday to people not travelling for work, medical appointments or delivering freight.
Border travel will be policed in an RBT-style with officers to determine who needs to cross as the state tries to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Officials are working with airlines to ensure passengers know before they board flights what will happen when they arrive in Queensland.
Travelling from Tweed to Coolangatta for work is allowed.
"People should stay in their own state," Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said on Tuesday.
"As far as possible, they should be staying in their suburbs and as much as possible staying at home."
Travelling to work, to the supermarket, the pharmacy and the petrol station is classed as essential.
Travel for all other purposes is highly discouraged.
"We want everyone to know they can play their part to protect themselves and the more vulnerable in our community," Queensland Health said in a statement on Tuesday.
"Please follow the recommended advice from us and our federal counterparts in regards to social distancing, public gatherings and general wellbeing.
"Critically, make sure you are practising good hygiene and staying home if you're sick.
"Washing your hands properly and often is the gold standard of health advice that can help prevent viruses from entering your body."
A $4 billion package has also been announced to cover the state's additional health needs and relieve financial pressure on households and businesses.
Households will receive a $200 rebate on their electricity bill to cover the extra power and water usage while people are asked to stay home.
About $300 million will be directed to reducing the cost of living for households and further funding for payroll tax relief for businesses.
Australian Associated Press