Sydney in Lockdown: Get the Actual Laws Without Spin
- John Vizzone
- Jun 27, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 27, 2021
On 26 June 2021 the New South Wales government put Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Wollongong and the Central Coast into a two week lockdown.
This follows a short period of uncertainty after it was announced that the Local Government Areas of Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra and the City of Sydney were placed into their own lockdown first.
With such lock downs and "Stay at Home" orders there is often much confusion as to who can still go to work and which businesses can stay open. It seems even the government were confused as despite announcing the lockdown started at 6pm they didn't actually legislate the order until 7:28 p.m.
We try to break down the confusion and explain the laws without spin. With fines of $11,000 for individuals and $55,000 for Corporations possible, it is important to know where you stand.
What are the laws?
The laws are created by Public Health Orders. Unfortunately there can be confusion when politicians and media speak in terms that differ from the actual Orders. It is always best if you are confused or concerned to just read the Orders themselves.
We have copied the orders below for you. They are quite simple to read!
What are the reasonable excuses to leave your house?
Obtaining food or services;
To attend work or education if it is not possible to do it at home;
Exercise;
Medical or care reasons including getting the vaccine
What businesses are required to shut down?
Pubs and clubs (Except for the provision of take-away and for weddings and funerals);
Cafes and restaurants (Except for the provision of take-away and for weddings and funerals);
Entertainment and sex venues (Except for weddings and funerals);
Places of worship (Except for wedding, funeral and for the provision of child care);
Hairdressers, beauty saloons and other similar businesses;
Markets except those that predominantly sell food;
Information and education facilities except child care centres;
Temporary caravan parks and camping grounds;
Casinos;
Nightclubs;
Micro-breweries and distilleries except for the provision of takeaway food and drink;
Strip clubs;
Swimming Pools;
Auctions and open houses;
So can I go to Work? Am I Essential?
Unlike last year, there is no requirement to be "essential". The question is whether:
Is my place of work required to be shut down?
Can I do my work at home?
If the answer is no to both these questions, then you can still attend your work place.
If you have any other questions, please comment on social media, or email law@vrtlawyers.com.au and we will be happy to answer any more common questions.
Find the full orders here:
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