This is my latest update to provide you with information about the impact of Coronavirus (Covid-19) on our community.
The NSW Government has announced new measures in response to current outbreak that will take effect from 12:01am Monday, 16th August.
After that time, in Greater Sydney and other lockdown areas, the 10 kilometre rule will be reduced with shopping and outdoor recreation to be done in a person’s local government area (LGA) or, if outside their LGA within 5 kilometres from home only.
There will also be increased fines for Public Health Order breaches (from 12.01am, Monday, 16 August):
- $5,000 on the spot fine for breaching self-isolation rules;
- $5,000 on the spot fine for lying on a permit (already a criminal offence);
- $5,000 on the spot fine for lying to a contact tracer (already a criminal offence);
- $3,000 on the spot fine for breaching the two person outdoor exercise/recreation rule; and
- $3,000 on the spot fine for breaching rules around entry into regional NSW for authorised work, inspecting real estate and travelling to your second home.
Permit system to enter regional NSW (from 12.01am, Saturday, 21 August):
- Any person who wishes to travel to regional NSW for one of the following reasons must have a permit which will be made available on Service NSW:
- authorised workers from LGAs of concern
- inspecting real estate. Any person inspecting real estate in the regions must now genuinely need a home to live in (no investment properties); and
- travelling to your second home. This is now only allowed if you are using the home for work accommodation or if the home requires urgent maintenance and repairs (if so, only one person may travel there).
Changes for residents in local government areas of concern:
- From 12.01am, Monday, 16 August: only exercise and supervision of children allowed (no outdoor recreation);
- From 12.01am, Saturday, 21 August: People who live alone must now register their “singles bubble”. Registration will be made available on nsw.gov.au
In addition, eligible workers aged 17 and over who live in the LGAs of concern, who have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested and isolate until a negative result is returned, will be eligible for one $320 payment in a four week period for lost wages.
Those waiting on their test results will get the $320 payment in their bank account within three business days of applying online at Service NSW.
There will also be a new $400 hardship payment payable through the Red Cross, for temporary visa holders and others in the community who are ineligible for Government financial support.
COVID-19 information and eligibility and how to apply will be made available soon.
Please continue to come forward for a Covid-19 test, even if you have the mildest of symptoms.
My staff and I are here to help you. Please call my office on 9349 6007, email matt.thistlethwaite.mp@aph.gov.au or reach me via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
If you would like further information regarding these restrictions you can call Service NSW 24/7 on 13 77 88.
