- Follows couple in their 50s testing positive with missing link
- Measures apply to Greater Sydney region including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains
- Masks will be compulsory in all public indoor settings
New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced new restrictions will be legally enforceable as of 5 pm today with the new rules set to be lifted at 12:01 am Monday although, of course, this could be changed.
The announcement follows an eastern suburbs couple in their 50s testing positive to the virus, despite it not being clear how the man contracted the virus from a traveller quarantining at the Park Royal at Darling Harbour, suggesting there is a missing link in the community.
The measures affect the entire Greater Sydney region, including Wollongong, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains.
The main restrictions include household visitors, which have been cut to a maximum of 20 guests, including children.
The Premier argues the three-day restrictions would reduce the risk of a super spreading event and allow contact tracers to discover the missing link.
“These measures are proportionate to the risk and will help reduce further cases of community transmission,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“To allow our health authorities to do their excellent work it is critical the community continues to keep their physical distance, get tested with even the mildest of symptoms and importantly continues to use the Service NSW app to check into venues.”
Gladys Berejiklian, NSW Premier
Masks will be compulsory on public transport, along with all indoor public venues – including retail outlets, theatres, hospitals, aged care facilities and front-of-house hospitality staff. Additionally, aged care facilities will be limited to two guests per resident.
Venues will remain open, however, masks can be only removed when eating or drinking and you cannot sand and drink in an indoor venue. Dancing is banned except for weddings – although it is “strongly recommended” there are no more than 20 people on the dance floor at any given time.
Along with dancing, singing at indoor shows or indoor places of worship will not be allowed, with large group gatherings discouraged over the coming days.
The Health Minister, Brad Hazzard, and the Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, have both reiterated calls for anyone with Covid-like symptoms to get tested immediately.
“It is also important to remember that even if you have had your first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine you must still come forward for testing if you have any symptoms,” said Mr Hazzard.
