Residents, visitors and shopkeepers in St George and Sutherland Shire have largely embraced wearing face masks since a Public Health Order was issued more than a week ago.
This is despite some confusion regarding in which settings masks have to be worn, with the NSW Government updating its own advice several times in as many days.
NSW Police have issued a number of Penalty Infringement Notices, which include a $200 fine, and warnings for breaches of Public Health Orders regarding the use of face masks.
NSW Police Media has been providing updates on all fines issued. So far, none appear to have been issued in St George and Sutherland Shire.
Anyone with information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of COVID-19-related ministerial directions should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or click here.
The NSW Government announced just over a week ago that face masks would be mandatory in certain premises in Greater Sydney, Wollongong, Central Coast and Blue Mountains from January 3, with fines in place from last Monday.
According to the Public Health (COVID-19 Mandatory Face Coverings) Order 2021, a person must wear a fitted face covering at all times in an indoor area of retail or business premises that provides goods or services, including supermarkets, shopping centres, bank branches, post offices, hairdressing salons, nail salons, beauty salons, tanning salons, waxing salons, spas, tattoo parlours, massage parlours, betting agencies, including gaming lounges, entertainment facilities, places of worship and residential aged care facilities.
Face coverings must also be worn on public transport and in waiting areas, including taxi and ride-share services.
Anyone working at a hospitality venue in that deals directly with members of the public must wear a fitted face mask at all times.
Children aged 12 and under or anyone with a physical or mental health illness or condition, or disability is exempt.
Face coverings can be removed if a person is eating or drinking, is communicating with another person who is deaf or hard of hearing, or in some other circumstances, such as health and safety, to ascertain a person's identity, or to allow a facial or beard trim. Face covering must be worn as soon as practicable after the circumstance ends.
Details: To view the Public Health Order click here.
