All attendees of private gatherings that exceed 20 people – not just the organiser – will risk $1000 fines under changes made to the COVID-19 Public Health Order today.
The changes come as the weather starts to warm up and the days get longer.
Previously, only the organiser of a gathering was liable to receive a fine if the number of people at a private premises breached the Public Health Order, now every person in attendance will be held individually responsible for the breach.
The changes, which came into effect at midnight, aim to ensure the safety of the community ahead of an expected increase in gatherings associated with Christmas and end-of-year festivities.
Operation Corona Virus Commander, Assistant Commissioner Tony Crandell, said that as with the previous restrictions, these amendments have been made with community safety in mind.
“Coming into the warmer months, and with end-of-year festivities around the corner, it’s only natural that people will have additional reasons to want to gather and get together,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
“These amendments aim to ensure that an increase in expected gatherings doesn’t mean an increase in COVID-19 cases.
“The new changes come in addition to other restrictions which remain in place, including a limit on numbers at outdoor gatherings and licensed premises.
“NSW Police will continue to work with the community to ensure compliance to all restrictions under the Public Health Order.
“While the vast majority of people within NSW are doing their part, we will continue to target those who don’t.”
