Statement from Gladys Berejiklian and Brad Hazzard
Given the current health situation on the Northern Beaches and taking into account updated health advice from Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, the Northern Beaches have been separated into two zones, and restrictions have been modestly modified for the Christmas period.
On December 24, 25 and 26, the following conditions will be in place:
For the Northern Beaches peninsula zone (North of Narrabeen Bridge, and east of the Baha'i Temple):
- There is a new reason for leaving home: to visit the home of others who live within this zone.
- Up to 5 visitors (total, including children) will be allowed in homes as long as they reside in the peninsula zone.
- People may not enter or leave this zone, unless for the four approved reasons already in place.
- On December 27, the region will revert to existing restrictions.
For the remainder (southern zone) of the Northern Beaches:
- There is a new reason for leaving home: to visit the home of others who live within this zone.
- Up to 10 visitors (plus primary school children and younger) will be allowed in homes. This may include people from outside this zone, not including the Northern Beaches peninsula zone.
- People who reside outside the northern beaches are allowed to visit others in this zone.
- Residents of this zone may not leave, unless for the four approved reasons already in place.
- We will reassess restrictions in this zone following Boxing Day.
For the Greater Sydney region, Central Coast, Wollongong and Nepean Blue Mountains:
- Current restrictions that were due to expire at midnight tonight will remain in place.
- However, primary school-aged children and younger will be allowed on top of the current 10 visitors cap for homes.
- On December 27, the region will revert to existing restrictions.
Restrictions for Regional NSW remain unchanged.
In addition, as of 1 January 2021, hospitality venues and hairdressers will be required to use the NSW Government QR code system.
Decisions on New Year's Eve and upcoming sporting events will be made after this Christmas period.
We also want to again thank all those who are in self-isolation over the Christmas period. What you are doing is not just protecting you and your loved ones but everyone in the state of New South Wales.
It is important to remember that COVID-19 is still circulating in the community, especially when you gather with family and friends over the Christmas period.
We are urging the community to continue to play their role in controlling the spread, by getting tested if symptoms develop, practising physical distancing and good hand hygiene, and by wearing a mask, particularly indoors.
