NSW COVID UPDATE
JUNE 24

Dear ,


As you would be aware, new restrictions have come into place for Metropolitan Sydney and Greater Sydney effective June 23rd. A copy of the new Public Health Order can be found here

These new measures are in effect until at least July 1st, 2021, but may be extended depending on how quickly this current COVID-19 outbreak is brought under control.

Thus, as of today, if your facility is outside of the greater metropolitan area (which includes the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shoalhaven LGA’s), you will remain largely unaffected by these new rules, noting that there remains restrictions on those who travel from these areas to regional NSW. (e.g. those who are from Greater Sydney are still required to wear masks in indoor settings).

This morning, I have written to NSW Mass Gatherings seeking urgent clarity of a number of issues. My email was as follows -

"Dear Mass Gatherings,
 
I write in response to the recently announced and subsequently gazetted Public Health (COVID-19 Greater Sydney) Order (No 2) 2021. With school holidays approaching, I wish to confirm that my understanding of the rules is reflective of their intended application.
 
Thus, can you please confirm the following
 
  1. Any person who generally resides or works in one of the 7 listed LGA’s cannot leave Metropolitan Sydney (as defined in Public Health (COVID-19 Greater Sydney) Order (No 2) 2021 except for work or other essential purposes, but can move around within this defined area.
  2. Face masks need to be worn in all indoor settings, except in accommodation settings, within Metropolitan Sydney (etc) by all aged over 12 years of age; and also in indoor settings by those outside Metropolitan Sydney who have been in Metropolitan Sydney within the last fortnight.
  3. Singing is not permitted indoors but is still permitted outdoors.
  4. The density rules do not apply to essential activities at accommodation venues. (Schedule 2 (12))
  5. Masks are required on public transport, but not in private vehicles.
 
Please advise:- 
 
  1. What the density rules are for Communal areas at accommodation facilities, as these appear to be exempted from the above Health Order via Section 9 (2)(e).
  2. Similarly, as the provision of food and meeting space is an essential part of our offering (and attendees do not have a choice of going to alternate food vendors) are these part of our essential services. Under Schedule 2 (12).
  3. Whether, when using private bus charters, masks are required to be worn.
  4. Whether educational holiday camps can adopt the same rules as are in place for other educational settings. See https://education.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/advice-for-families#Wearing6
 
As our members will start welcoming guests for these programs within the next 48 hours, urgent attention to these questions would be greatly appreciated."

At this stage, I cannot anticipate when a reply is likely to be received. History has shown that the NSW Health Mass Gatherings team are most diligent in their work but also shares resources with the contact tracing team.

I will naturally forward on all information as soon as it is received.

I would encourage all that need urgent guidelines to contact the NSW Business Concierge on 13 77 88 (see https://mybusiness.service.nsw.gov.au/concierge).

As always, I am available to talk through any issues you have. My mobile, is best and I am happy to take calls out of hours and on weekends as needed.

Praying for you all as we navigate this new/old season.

Graeme