CHANGES TO THE NSW COVID-19 RULES APPLY FROM TODAY

On 28 April 2020 the NSW Premier announced a relaxation of the COVID-19 social distancing rules to reduce social isolation and improve mental health.

The Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order 2020 has now been amended to expand the definition of being able to leave home for ‘care or medical purposes’.

Effective 01 May 2020, two adults and any dependent children will be allowed to visit another household to provide care or support.

This means NSW residents can visit friends and family on the basis of providing care or support for:

  • mental health
  • physical health
  • emotional health
  • well-being.

 

Can I have a friends or family over for lunch or dinner?

Yes, but only a maximum of two adults and any dependent children can visit at a time.

The NSW government has also said people must continue to maintain social distancing (1.5 metres between the visitors and hosts) and practise good hygiene.

 

Is there a limit on how far I can travel to visit another person?

There is no maximum distance you can travel, however you must return home on the same day.

Overnight stays are prohibited.

Taking a holiday in a regional area is still not a ‘reasonable excuse’ to leave home.

 

How many people can visit me in one day?

There is no limit to the quantity of visitors you can have in one day, just the number that can visit at a particular time.

For example, your parents could visit you at lunchtime and two friends and their children could visit later in the day. However, they could not all visit at the same time.

 

Have there been any other changes to the Order?

No, not at this stage.

You still need to stay at home unless you have a ‘reasonable excuse’ to leave.

Examples of a ‘reasonable excuse’ include:

  • obtaining food or other goods or services
  • travelling for the purposes of work or education
  • exercise
  • medical or caring reasons.

 

The two-person gathering limit still applies to public places.

 

This information is current as at 01 May 2020.