PREMIER Annastacia Palaszczuk has abandoned schoolies week, rating it too dangerous to go ahead with COVID-19 still not under control.
It comes after great dislocation for pupils, especially for year 12, with home schooling occurring for months last term.
Chief health officer Dr Jeannette Young said the mass gatherings of young people seen at schoolies over an extended period was a high risk.
It meant events including beachfront concerts would not be staged.
Dr Young said the celebrations would be raised at the national meeting of health officers.
"This is not something that is unique to Queensland," Dr Young said.
"I feel terribly for this year's school leavers who have already been through so much.
"But that is the reality of keeping every family safe from this horrible disease."
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the decision was unfortunate but inescapable.
"The pandemic means we cannot have mass gatherings," the Premier said.
"Parents need to know their children's safety comes first.
"We do not want them contracting or spreading COVID-19."
Ms Palaszczuk said school-leavers should still celebrate their achievements and take advantage of being able to travel throughout the state.
"Schoolies week doesn't have to be just one week," Ms Palaszczuk said.
"We are good to go across Queensland to some of the most beautiful places in the world right here in our own backyard."
Accommodation providers will be required to register guests as part of their COVID-safe plans.
Gatherings in residences including holiday units will be limited to no more than 10 people state-wide from November 21 to December 11.
Rules for restaurants, pubs and clubs are unchanged.
Health Minister Steven Miles said those heading for end-of-year celebrations would need to make sure they followed the rules.
"No one is saying you can't celebrate the end of the school year," he said. "Go away with your mates by all means but, sadly, we all have to keep COVID in mind."
