Australia: New South Wales to ease gathering restrictions from 0001 Feb. 26 /update 20

Event

New South Wales (NSW) authorities will ease statewide gathering restrictions from 0001 Feb. 26 due to decreased local COVID-19 activity. The limit for indoor gatherings will be increased to 50 people across the state. The government will also ease other rules, such as allowing 30 people to dance at weddings and 30 performers at indoor singing events.

Authorities continue to limit outdoor public groups to 50 people in Greater Sydney. Up to 500 people can attend outdoor performances and protests, while 2,000 people can attend seated outdoor gatherings. Outdoor venues can operate with one person per two square meters (21.5 square feet). Most nonessential businesses can open with a capacity limit of one person per two square meters (21.5 square feet). Officials continue to require facemasks on public transport; health staff also continue to advise the use of facemasks in areas where social distancing is not guaranteed.

In other areas of New South Wales, outdoor gatherings remain capped at 100 people. Up to 3,000 people can attend outdoor performances and protests, while 5,000 people can attend seated outdoor gatherings. Nonessential businesses can operate with their capacity limited to one person per two square meters (21.5 square feet). Capacity limits do not apply to transport hubs, hospitals, courts, supermarkets, schools, hotel accommodations, and commercial operations, including office buildings, factories, warehouses, and mining and construction sites, among others. Authorities urge residents in regional NSW to wear facemasks in indoor public areas where social distancing is impractical, especially on public transport, though there is no mandate.

Domestic Border Controls
NSW allows most travelers from all Australian states and territories to enter without quarantine. However, officials continue to ban non-residents who have been to places of "high concern" in Victoria at specified times. Returning residents who visited these locations at the specified times must complete a health declaration if arriving by air or train and self-quarantine for 14 days.

International Quarantine Requirements
Most travelers entering Australia must quarantine in government-designated facilities for 14 days in the city of arrival. Arrivals from New Zealand are exempt from quarantine. Costs for quarantine are at the traveler's own expense, payable at the end of the period. Quarantine fees are AUD 3,000 (USD 2,322) for the first adult, AUD 1,000 (USD 774) per additional adult, and AUD 355 (USD 275) per child; the government does not charge fees for children under three years old. Authorities require quarantined travelers to take a COVID-19 test on the 10th day of quarantine. Refusal to take tests will result in an additional 10 days in quarantine.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by government health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Plan for transport disruptions and delivery delays between Victoria and New South Wales. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

New South Wales Government
NSW Health
NSW Self-isolation Guide