Update on Restrictions 2 January 2021 | NSW Government

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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 9 January 2021;

  • No visitors to the home.
  • Five northern zone residents can gather outdoors (not at homes) for exercise and recreation, from within the same zone.
  • 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 following measures for Greater Sydney (including Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains) are effective from midnight tonight:

  • Face masks will be mandatory in 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.
    • Compliance will start from Monday, 4 January 2021 with $200 on the spot fines for individuals for non-compliance. Children under 12 are exempt but are encouraged to wear masks where practicable.
  • Gym classes reduced to 30 people.
  • Places of worship and religious services limited to 1 person per 4sqm up to a maximum of 100 people per separate area.
  • Weddings and funerals limited to 1 person per 4sqm up to a maximum of 100 people.
  • Outdoor performances and protests reduced to 500 people.
  • Controlled, outdoor gatherings (seated, ticketed, enclosed) reduced to 2,000 people.
  • Night clubs not permitted.

People are still 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), we urge all residents and visitors across the State 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.