Power to enforce social changes

Apr 3, 2020

Police officers now have powers under the Public Health Act to enforce measures to stop the spread of COVID-19.

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The new measures came into force on Tuesday, with some key changes made to the measures previously announced by the Federal Government.

The changes are as follows:

• Stay at home rule – All people must stay home unless they have a reasonable excuse (including shopping, working, exercising, medical or caring responsibilities, accessing social services, weddings and funerals). Taking a holiday in a community outside of yours is not a reasonable excuse.

• Two person gathering rule – Only two people can gather in a public place (unless they are members of the same household). There are exemptions for driving in a vehicle, work, transport, shops etc. This means that only two persons can exercise together unless it is a family group, or the people live together.

• Additional places that must close – outdoor gyms, playgrounds, skate parks.

Murray Police District Commander Supt Paul Smith said the health crisis was ‘‘nothing like anything we’ve ever experienced, and I can understand members of our communities are anxious’’.

‘‘I want to assure you police are committed to using all the powers available to us to enforce all COVID-19 related public health orders and play our part in stopping the spread of this virus,’’ Supt Smith said.

‘‘Police can now issue a Penalty Infringement Notice, or an on-the-spot fine, for the offence of not complying with a ministerial direction or a public health order. This on the spot fine is $1000 for individuals and $5000 for businesses.

‘‘I want to assure the community we will be using this power if required. This means if someone is ordered to self-isolate and they do not comply, or if people do not adhere to social distancing rules, police will respond and issue them with a fine.

‘‘This new power is in addition to the options that were already available to us. A person may also be issued with a Court Attendance Notice with a penalty of up to $11,000 or six months imprisonment if convicted.’’

To report non-compliance with public health orders, phone CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

WHAT IS CLOSED?

● Beauty and nails shops, massage (excluding health related).

● Real estate auctions and inspections.

● Amusement parks, arcades and play centres.

● Yoga, pilates and wellness centres.

● Pools and sporting activities.

● Galleries, libraries, community and recreation centres.

● Cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos and night clubs.

● Religious gatherings.

● Pubs, registered and licensed clubs (excluding bottle shops attached to these venues), hotels (excluding accommodation)

● Outdoor gyms, playgrounds, skate parks