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 a number of new restrictions and significant changes that will be introduced.
Lockdown extension
The NSW Government has extended the current lockdown in Greater Sydney until at least the end of September.
Mandatory masks
From 12.01am Monday, 23 August, a new rule will be introduced for Greater Sydney (including regional NSW until 28 August) that will make mask wearing compulsory when outside your home, except when exercising.
Additional rules for LGAs of concern including Bayside LGA
From 12.01am Monday, 23 August, these new rules will apply for residents and businesses in the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of concern:
- Curfews from 9pm to 5am (except for authorised workers, emergencies or medical care)
- Outdoor exercise limited to one hour per day
- These retail premises must close except for click and collect: garden centres and plant nurseries, office supplies, hardware and building supplies, landscaping material supplies, rural supplies, and pet supplies (tradespeople are allowed to shop in-store where relevant)
- All exams and other education or professional development related activities will move online, not including the HSC. The NSW Government will provide further information on this change.
New restrictions for workplaces and authorised workers from LGAs of concern including Bayside LGA
- From Saturday, 28 August, authorised workers from the LGAs of concern are required to carry a permit from Service NSW declaring that they are an authorised worker and cannot work from home
- From Saturday, 28 August, anyone entering an LGA of concern for the purposes of work must carry a worker permit issued by Service NSW.
- Childcare workers and disability support workers who live or work in the LGAs of concern must have their first vaccination dose by 30 August. These workers and other authorised workers can book priority vaccination appointments here
- Authorised workers who work outside their LGA of concern are only permitted to work if rapid antigen testing is implemented at their work-site or they have had their first vaccination dose by 30 August.
Special powers for NSW Police Force
- If a person from outside an LGA of concern is found to be in an LGA of concern without a reasonable excuse, they will be fined $1000 and required to isolate at home for 14 days
- Powers to allow police to direct a person who has been issued with an infringement notice to return to their place of residence
- Power for the Commissioner of Police to lockdown apartment blocks while NSW Health assesses the COVID risk
- Power for the Commissioner of Police to declare a residential premise a COVID-risk premise and require all people to present to police during compliance checks.
I know these are tough times for all in our community. Please look out for your family and loved ones and call or email me if you need assistance.
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.
