Australia: COVID-19 restrictions eased in New South Wales as of Dec. 11 /update 8

Event

The New South Wales (NSW) government has further eased restrictions amid reduced coronavirus disease (COVID-19) activity in Australia. Authorities allow up to 50 people at private residences, though they continue to encourage smaller groups of 30 people indoors. Public gatherings of 100 people can also occur. Officials have lifted capacity limits on private events. Authorities urge residents to wear facemasks in indoor public areas where social distancing is impractical, especially on public transport, but there is no facemask mandate in the state. Officials also suggest that people who have visited any establishments with reported COVID-19 cases self-quarantine for 14 days and get tested, even if asymptomatic.

NSW officials have increased capacity limits for most nonessential businesses; they can operate with one person per two square meters (21 square feet). The rule takes effect after 25 people. However, gyms and dancefloors remain restricted to one person per four square meters (43 square feet), up to 50 people per area. Outdoor stadiums and theaters can hold 100 percent of capacity, while indoor venues can operate at 75-percent capacity. The government permits outdoor ticketed events of up to 5,000 people. Outdoor events without assigned seating remain limited to 3,000 attendees and must follow the two square meter rule. Capacity limits do not apply to transport hubs, hospitals, courts, supermarkets, schools, hotel accommodations, and commercial operations, including office buildings, factories, warehouses, and mining and construction sites, among others. Officials continue to require employees to work from home, if feasible, but plan to ease that stipulation from Dec. 14.

Domestic Border Controls
NSW allows travelers from all Australian states and territories without quarantine. However, officials continue to ban entry for nonresidents who have visited "areas of concern" in South Australia. Affected New South Wales residents are still permitted to enter the state but must get a COVID-19 test and self-quarantine for 14 days after arrival. Authorities will also exempt travelers strictly transiting the state from the ban. All travelers from South Australia must complete an entry declaration form at least 24 hours before arrival.

International Quarantine Requirements
Most travelers entering Australia must quarantine in government-designated facilities for 14 days in the city of arrival. New Zealand residents can enter New South Wales without quarantine. The New South Wales government charges payment from all travelers required to quarantine, payable at the end of the period. Quarantine fees are AUD 3,000 (USD 2,270) for the first adult, AUD 1,000 (USD 756) per additional adult, and AUD 355 per child; the government does not charge fees for children under three years old. Travelers who purchased tickets with a confirmed arrival date before 2359 July 12 are exempt from payment. Authorities require quarantined travelers to take a COVID-19 test on the 10th day of quarantine. Refusal to take tests will result in an additional 10 days in quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by government health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Plan for transport disruptions and delivery delays between Victoria and New South Wales. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

New South Wales Government
NSW Health
Areas of Concern - South Australia