For NSW peoples... FWIW Vic will be following these again within a fortnight
The NSW Government has released an update on COVID restrictions to come into effect from midnight tonight.
A statement attributed to NSW Premier Gladys Alphabet and Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said that "given the risk of COVID-19 transmission on the Northern Beaches and across Greater Sydney (including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains), the following adjustments are being made".
From midnight tonight, the southern zone of the Northern Beaches will be subject to the same restrictions as Greater Sydney.
Restrictions for the northern zone of the Northern Beaches remain the same with stay at home orders in place until January 9, 2021. These include no visitors to the home; five northern zone residents can gather outdoors (not at homes) for exercise and recreation, from within the same zone and non-essential businesses remain closed.
"Given the general risk in Greater Sydney, new measures are required to reduce the transmission potential of COVID-19 while maintaining economic activity," the statement said.
"The following measures for Greater Sydney (including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains) are effective from midnight tonight:
Face masks will be mandatory at the following indoor settings:
shopping (retail, supermarkets and shopping centres)
public/shared transport, indoor entertainment (including cinemas and theatres)
places of worship
hair and beauty premises.
Face masks will also be mandatory for all staff in hospitality venues and casinos and for patrons using gaming services.
From Monday, January 4, 2021, there will be $200 on-the-spot fines for individuals for non-compliance. Children under 12 are exempt but are encouraged to wear masks where practicable.
Further restrictions include:
Gym classes reduced to 30 people; places of worship and religious services limited to one person per four square metres, up to a maximum of 100 people per separate area.
Weddings and funerals limited to one person per four square metres, up to a maximum of 100 people
Outdoor performances and protests reduced to 500 people
Controlled, outdoor gatherings (seated, ticketed, enclosed) reduced to 2000 people
Nightclubs are not permitted.
People are also encouraged to limit non-essential gatherings and reduce their mobility where possible to further minimise the risk of transmission in the community.
Whilst these measures do not apply to areas outside Greater Sydney (including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains), all residents and visitors across NSW are urged to practise COVID-Safe behaviours and get tested even if symptoms are mild.
"We thank the community for their patience and understanding. Our priority is always to protect the health and safety of the community," the statement said.
