Here’s the breakdown of the new rules impacting 12 suburbs in the Penrith Local Government Area.
What suburbs are impacted?
The suburbs under the tighter rules are Caddens, Claremont Meadows, Colyton, Erskine Park, Kemps Creek, Kingswood, Mount Vernon, North St Marys, Orchard Hills, Oxley Park, St Clair and St Marys.
Why are these suburbs listed but not others, which have had numerous venue alerts?
It’s important to note that exposure site locations are not necessarily where COVID-infected people live.
For example, today 29 new cases were reported in the Penrith Local Government Area. But only one of these were in the suburb of Penrith. 28 were in suburbs affected by the new rules.
The trend of the last week has shown cases rising in the eastern parts of the LGA, but not so much elsewhere. That’s despite the significant number of venue alerts.
Remember – venue alerts don’t always equal cases.
What are the main new rules if I live in one of the suburbs?
The main changes are that you must only go within 5km of your home, including when getting food or for exercise.
When going outside, even for exercise, you must wear a mask.
The 5km rule is an interesting one in this particular circumstance given you could enter a non-listed suburb while exercising or getting food. As we understand it, common sense is the key here, but we have sought clarification from NSW Health.
Can I go to work if I live in a listed suburb, but my workplace is elsewhere in the Penrith LGA?
Yes, as long as you are on the NSW Government’s Authorised Worker list, and/or your workplace is permitted to open under the current rules.
Can I shop anywhere in the Penrith LGA?
No. There was some confusion over this earlier today. You must shop within 5km of your home unless you cannot reasonably do so.
How long will these rules last?
There is no set timeframe, but it’s safe to say they’ll be in place until at least August 28 when the current lockdown runs until.
The State Government has suggested some restrictions may be lifted after that, depending on the vaccine rate and case numbers.
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