Previously, only the organiser of a gathering was liable to receive a fine if the number of people at the premises breached the Public Health Order, but now every person in attendance will now be held individually responsible for the breach.
The changes, which came into effect at midnight on Monday, 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 had 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,” he 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,” Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
“While the vast majority of people within NSW are doing their part, we will continue to target those who don’t.”
To view the restrictions on gatherings and movement in full, visit nsw.gov.au.
Fines for all at party alert
WITH warmer weather and longer days ahead, amendments have been made to the Public Health Order – with all attendees at private gatherings now risking $1,000 Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) if it exceeds the allowed 20-person limit.