Friday, 1 May 2020

Recent changes to COVID-19 gathering & travelling rules


NSW Premier, media release, 28 April 2020:

Update on COVID-19 restrictions

The NSW Government has announced an update on COVID-19 restrictions and how our schools and retail outlets will look for the month of May.


There will be three key changes that will take effect across NSW next month:
  1. From Friday, 1 May up to two adults and their dependent children will be allowed to visit another household.
  2. We will see a return of face-to-face teaching from 11 May, and then will consider accelerating a full return to school as soon as possible.
  3. There have never been restrictions in NSW on what people can and cannot buy, however there may be increased retail activity, with some businesses choosing to re-open. It is important these shops maintain social distancing and hygiene requirements.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said this update on visits to households has been made to reduce social isolation and improve mental health.
“It extends the existing guidelines of being able to leave home for ‘care or medical purposes’,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The two adults need not be related.
“The last thing any of us want to see is a huge spike in cases.
“We need anyone with even the mildest of symptoms anywhere in NSW to stay home and come forward for testing.”
There is no limit on how far you can travel within NSW so long as you respect the rules and the reason is consistent with one of the four categories for leaving home.
It is important when visiting another household social distancing is maintained and extra hygiene precautions are taken. When visiting, meeting in an outdoor environment such as home garden, backyard or verandah will help reduce the risk.
If you are visiting those aged over 70 or those with underlying health conditions we are urging you to be extra vigilant with social distancing and hygiene measures.
It is also important to remember that you do not visit anyone if you or they are unwell, even if you have mild symptoms like fatigue or a scratchy throat.
The two-person gathering limit still applies to public places.

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