NSW tightens Covid restrictions - here's what you need to know
NSW has introduced a number of restrictions to stop the spread of coronavirus and pull the state out of lockdown.
The state reported 111 cases of coronavirus on Saturday with more than 29 out in the community while infectious.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters a number of restrictions will be introduced from midnight Saturday including the closure of all "non-critical" retail stores.
"We have a list of what is critical retail," she said.
"Obviously things like supermarkets, pharmacists, they will retain face-to-face retail but anything which is regarded as non-critical retail will not be able to have face-to-face."
Essential retail defined by NSW Health
Supermarkets (includes bakeries, butchers and liquor stores)
Health, maternity and medical stores
Pharmacies and chemists
Petrol stations
Car hire
Banks and financial institutions
Hardware stores
Agricultural and rural supply stores
Post offices and newsagents
Office supply stores
All employers will also have to allow office workers to work from home or could face $10,000 fines.
Anyone who leaves the home has to carry a mask on them at all times.
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“No matter where you live in metropolitan Sydney, Greater Sydney, you must have a mask with you," Ms Berejiklian said.
"Even if you are exercising with your household, you might change your mind, be in an outdoor market, get a coffee, you must have a mask.
"If you are coming into contact with other people, you must have a mask and have a social distancing.
"Please, make sure that whenever you leave your home you have a mask with you.”
The premier has also asked people not to carpool unless they are with household contacts.
People living in Canterbury-Bankstown, Fairfield and Liverpool LGAs will not be able to leave their areas unless they work in health or emergency services. Anyone who does leave for these reasons has to undergo a Covid-19 test every three days.
All construction will be put on hold too from Monday.
"Non-urgent repairs, any form of building, renovation, construction, maintenance including cleaners into the home or workers into home will not be allowed for all of Greater Sydney until July 30," she said.
"We know this is a big decision. We know the impact this will have on businesses small and large. But we really need to reduce mobility and we need to reduce the chances of anybody adding the virus in their workplace, spreading it to work colleagues and then bringing it home."
The premier said Saturday's announcements came after a meeting with health authorities on Friday afternoon.
More to come.
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