NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced a number of new restrictions in response to the current health crisis, which has seen infection rates skyrocket to 38,625 cases.

This morning, Perrottet met with the government’s Covid economic recovery committee to sign off on the new measures, which include no singing and dancing in pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants.

“There will be no singing and dancing in hospitality venues. That does not include weddings or performers or classes that people may be conducting,” Perrottet said.

At this stage, major events scheduled across the state will still go ahead as planned, but will be subject to risk assessments from health authorities and could be postponed at their discretion.

These new restrictions will come into place tomorrow (Friday, January 8) and remain until Thursday, January 27.

No changes to gathering restrictions or density limits have been announced at this stage.

“If you’re in a hospitality venue, if you can sit down while drinking, please do so,” Perrottet said. “Minimising mingling during this period of time obviously provides greater assistance across the board and with household visitations, please where you can, minimise those household visitations and as well when you’re having events indoors. If you can have those events outdoors, we highly recommend it.”

From Monday, January 10, positive antigen tests will also need to be registered with NSW Health. A new reporting system will be introduced next week.

More to come.  

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