Masks will make a return to Queenslanders’ pockets during the holiday period.

The Premier this morning announced the health measure will be mandatory from 1am on Saturday, December 18 in retail stores, hospitals, aged care facilities, public transport and ride share vehicles.

These are largely places where the unvaccinated are mixing with the vaccinated.

Masks will be recommended but not mandatory in hospitality venues and anywhere you can’t socially distance.

It comes after the state recorded an increase in COVID-19 cases this week, following the borders reopening to fully vaccinated travellers from hotspots.

“We are asking this to slow the spread,” Premier Palaszczuk said.

Image: Nine News