Tough new compliance measures will also see dedicated hygiene marshals patrol venues to keep customers safe and ensure the mandatory implementation of a COVID-Safe plan.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the new measures, agreed to by the NSW Australian Hotels Association, come in to effect from today.
Under the new measures, pubs across NSW will be required to implement the following:
● The number of people per booking or table will be reduced from 20 people to 10;
● A cap of 300 people in a venue at any one time;
● Compulsory COVID-Safe registration through Service NSW;
● A dedicated COVID-Safe hygiene marshal in distinctive clothing must oversee social distancing, cleaning and hygiene at the venue;
● Paper sign-in will still be permitted, but hotels must create a digital record of patron names and phone numbers (excel or word) to be submitted within 24 hours;
● Ensure all patrons provide their name and contact details accurately; and
● Encouraged to strongly promote QR code sign-in.
Any business found in breach of the public health orders will be held to account and could face a penalty of up to $55,000.
A further $27,500 penalty may apply for each day an offence continues. On the spot fines can also be issued.
Liquor and Gaming NSW also have the power to enforce the following penalties:
● First offence – $5,500 fine or relevant penalty for breach of the Public Health Order.
● Second offence – Business will be closed for one week.
● Third offence (repeated and willful non-compliance) – Shutdown for up to one month.