A large-scale police operation is continuing along the NSW/Victoria border, with police facilitating the safe movement of more than two million vehicles into NSW.
Since midnight on Wednesday 8 July 2020, thousands of police officers from across the state have been deployed to support border crossings between NSW and Victoria.
The Public Health (COVID-19 Border Control) Amendment Order (No 6) 2020, under section 7 of the Public Health Act 2010, stipulates that border region residents can travel within the border region for any reason with a valid permit as of 12.01am yesterday (Thursday 17 September 2020).
The border resident permit now excludes the 'permitted purpose' clause, giving border residents the flexibility to move between border communities for any reason. Existing border region permits will remain the same and there is no need for residents to apply for a new permit.
The changes to the order also allows for recreational activities on the Murray River for border region residents with a current permit.
The Border Region has also been extended to approximately 50km on either side of the border. The new zone can be viewed online at https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/border-zone-address-check.
Operation Border Closure Forward Commander, Superintendent Paul Smith, said police will continue to work with local communities to keep both sides of the border safe.
"The changes to the orders are certainly good news for our border communities," Supt Smith said.
"The aim of this operation has always been to keep NSW safe, while minimising disruptions to the daily lives of our border communities.
"Police will continue to enforce all ministerial directions in order to protect our health and wellbeing, but we do rely on community support and compliance.
"I would like to extend my thanks to our border communities for their patience and compliance during these times," Supt Smith said.
For more information about exemptions or to apply for a permit, please visit: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-covid-19-nsw-border-entry-permit
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
