More freedoms from today November 8

CCN employees, Harry Mulholland and Lucillia Eljuga, at Hotel Gosford

Central Coast residents who are doubly vaccinated will enjoy more freedoms from November 8 as the State Government eases more restrictions in response to a faster-than-expected rate of vaccination – but masks will still be mandatory for now.

From November 8 there will be no limit on visitors to a home, no rules for outdoor gatherings with fewer than 1,000 people, and indoor swimming pools will re-open for all purposes.

Businesses will be able to welcome in more fully-vaccinated customers with all premises to move to 1 person per 2 sqm rule, and nightclubs will be able to re-open dancefloors.

Caps will be removed for settings other than gym and dance classes (where the 20-person cap for classes will remain) and will be replaced by density limits or 100 per cent fixed seated capacity for major recreation outdoor facilities (including stadiums, racecourses, theme parks and zoos) and entertainment facilities (including cinemas and theatres).

Residents are reminded these changes apply only to those who are fully vaccinated, those who have medical exemptions and children under the age of 16, with unvaccinated people still having to wait until the state reaches the 95 per cent double vaccination target, or December 15, whichever comes first.

COVID Safe check-ins and proof of vaccination will still be required.

The current settings for masks, which apply to everyone, will remain in place until the 95 per cent vaccination rate is attained, or December 15, whichever comes first.

NSW Health has started rolling out a booster vaccination program at its clinics to individuals aged 18 and older who received their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine six months or more ago.

Pfizer will be used for boosters regardless of the COVID-19 vaccine received for the first or second dose.

Premier Dominic Perrottet said the state was on track to reach 90 per cent double vaccination weeks ahead of schedule.

On the Central Coast 90 per cent are double vaccinated and 95 per cent have had one dose.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said NSW has one of the most vaccinated populations in the world and rolling out booster shots would continue to maintain that advantage.

But he warned that COVID will continue to circulate in the community and vigilance and booster shots were the way forward.

Source:
Media release, 2 Nov
NSW Health