On 30 December 2021, National Cabinet announced changes to the definition of a close contact. A close contact is generally someone who lives with or has spent more than 4 hours in a household with a COVID-19 positive person (a.k.a. a household or household-like contact).   There are slight differences in the definition of who is a close contact across states and territories, with most states and territories adopting a definition similar to the Commonwealth definition but South Australia.   Western Australia has adopted a broader definition which define more people as close contacts.   Being defined as a close contact triggers the relevant requirements to isolate or quarantine. Anyone who is required to isolate or quarantine may be eligible for the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment.