Covid-19 Updates

Changes to NSW "Roadmap" - some restrictions eased from 8th November

In response to the faster-than-expected rate of vaccination, the NSW Government is bringing forward easing of some rules for those who are fully vaccinated to Monday, 8 November (these were previously set to change on 1st December).

From 8 November there will be no limit on visitors to a home, no rules for outdoor gatherings with fewer than 1,000 people, and indoor swimming pools will re-open for all purposes.

All businesses will move to 1 person per 2 sqm rule (meaning more people are allowed in), and nightclubs will be able to re-open dancefloors.

Caps will be removed for settings other than gym and dance classes (where the 20 person cap for classes will remain) and replaced by density limits or 100 per cent fixed seated capacity for major recreation outdoor facilities (including stadiums, racecourses, theme parks and zoos) and entertainment facilities (including cinemas and theatres).

These changes will only apply to people who are fully vaccinated, those who have medical exemptions and children under the age of 16.

COVID Safe check-ins and proof of vaccination will still be required.

Those who are not fully vaccinated must still abide by pre-roadmap restrictions until the State reaches the 95 per cent double vaccination target, or 15 December, whichever happens first.

The current settings for masks, which apply to everyone, will remain in place until the State reaches the 95 per cent double vaccination target, or 15 December, whichever happens first.

NOTE: Until 8th November the "80 % rules" listed below still apply.

To check the current rules in full go to https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/stay-safe/rules


Changes for fully vaccinated people from Mon 18/10/21 - the 80% mark reached;

With NSW reaching 80% vaccination rate for people aged 16 and up, the new rules set out in the roadmap come into effect from Mon 18/10/21.

There are increased numbers allowed in various settings.

Community sport can commence (only for the fully vaccinated at this stage).

Masks are no longer required to be worn in office workplaces, but are still to be worn in other non-residential indoor settings e.g. still needed in retail shops, public transport.

However, travel between Greater Sydney and regional areas is still NOT allowed. That will be permitted from 1st Nov.

For a full list of the "80 %" rules check here https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/easing-covid-19-restrictions/80-percent


For a summary of the rule changes at 80%, some from 1st Nov and those to come on 1st December, download this Roadmap from the NSW Govt;

https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-10/COVID19-80-per-cent-roadmap.pdf


Compulsory for all workplaces and retail outlets to use the Service NSW QR code from Monday 12 July

In addition to hospitality buisnesses and hairdressers that already were required to use the Service NSW QR code system, from 12 July, the following businesses will need to display the Service NSW QR code and take reasonable steps to ensure people entering their premises check-in using the Service NSW QR codes or digital sign-in sheet:

  • Retail businesses and supermarkets

  • Individual shops within shopping centres

  • Shopping centres will also be asked to display QR codes at entry points where practicable

  • Gyms

  • Offices, including call centres

  • Manufacturing and warehousing

  • Universities and TAFE

  • Schools including teachers and visitors (such as parents and contractors) but excluding students.

Businesses such as hospitality and hairdressers that were already using the Service NSW QR code will also need to ensure staff and visitors such as maintenance workers and delivery drivers check-in, when they resume services after the lockdown period.

Hospitality businesses will now need to extend the use of the Service NSW COVID-Safe check-in to all customers including takeaway orders.

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Mudgee Vaccination Clinic - now taking bookings for all people aged 16+

The special COVID-19 Vaccination clinic is located at Mudgee Showground in the main pavillion.

Bookings can now be made by any person 40 years of age or older.

The vaccine for 16-59 year old is Pfizer, for 60 years + the vaccine is Astra Zeneca.

However if you have already had your first vaccine shot, the Health Department advice is to get the SAME vaccine for your second, 12 weeks after the first.

Bookings through the online booking system are preferred.

Book here https://www.hotdoc.com.au/medical-centres/mudgee-NSW-2850/mudgee-respiratory-clinic/doctors

by scrolling down to the green "Book Appointment" button.

If you are unable to use online booking call 6362 4031 between 10am and 4pm Mon-Fri.

Check if you are eligible for the current stage of the vaccine rollout at this page https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au/eligibility


28/6/21 - National cabinet decisions - Mandatory vaccinations for Aged Care workers, extra tests after quarantine period for international travellers

The Prime Minister has announced that Covid vaccinations will be mandatory for all Aged Care workers.

The Commonwealth will provide funding towards cost to Aged Care facilities if they need to arrange off-site vaccination and also some funding towards paid leave for staff to get vaccinated.

Some more details are available here;

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/national-cabinet-statement-5


International travellers (e.g. Australian citizens returning home) will be required to be tested again 2 or 3 days after they have completed their 14 day quarantine.

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Dine & Discover Vouchers

Mid-Western Regional Council area has now been added to the areas where these vouchers can be used.

To download your vouchers start here https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-dine-discover-nsw-vouchers

To find out where you can use your vouchers, start here https://mybusiness.service.nsw.gov.au/dine-and-discover/business-finder

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