‘MODEST’ CHANGES TO CHRISTMAS RESTRICTIONS | HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced “modest” changes to coronavirus restrictions over Christmas after the state recorded eight new locally acquired case.
“They’re modest tweaks and modest changes to account for the fact that everybody has had a very difficult year and some people’s stress levels and mental health capacity is already at breaking point,” Ms Berejiklian said.
What restrictions are changing?
For Greater Sydney residents, there will be no changes to the 10-visitor rule per home except from December 24 to December 26.
During that period, children under 12 are not counted.
But you cannot have different groups of 10 people during the day.
Can I see my family at Christmas?
Yes, you can, but there are restrictions for residents in the Sydney Northern Beaches hotspot.
People over 70 are also being urged to reconsider visiting homes outside their normal residence.
What about the Sydney Northern Beaches?
The Northern Beaches will be split in two at Narrabeen Bridge from December 24.
Those who live in the southern part of the Northern Beaches, such as Dee Why or Manly, can have 10 visitors from December 24 to December 26. But people cannot leave their area.
Northern Beaches residents who live north of the Narrabeen Bridge can have five people in their home but they must be people from within that region.
They are not permitted to have anybody from outside the area or move outside the area.
What about regional NSW?
There are no changes to restrictions for regional NSW residents.
Can I go shopping?
Yes. Shopping for food and other essential goods and services are acceptable reasons for leaving home for the locked down Northern Beaches.
What about the Service NSW QR code?
Premier Gladys Berejiklian has said all businesses will be expected to use the Service NSW QR code app by January 1.
Are there any changes to exercise outdoors?
Outdoor exercise is permitted.
Can I go for a drive?
Yes, but Northern Beaches residents or people who have visited it since December 10 are being urged to remain in their area.
What about elderly visitors?
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said people over 70 “should think twice” about visiting other homes outside their regular residence.
Can I go camping, fishing or to the beach?
For those in Greater Sydney or regional NSW, yes. Restrictions for the Northern Beaches area remain.
How long will these restrictions last?
The changes will revert back to current rules on December 27. The NSW Government will then assess whether the southern part of the Northern Beaches moves to Greater Sydney restrictions or back to the restrictions in place in the northern part of the Northern Beaches.
