The Australian city of Sydney has mandated the wearing of face masks in indoor spaces starting from Sunday, January 3, 2021. Violations of the new measure will be punishable by a fine starting Monday.
The Premier of the state of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian, announced the new regulations for Greater Sydney on Saturday.
Residents will be fined 200 Australian dollars ($154) if they are caught without face masks in the following places:
- Shopping malls
- Supermarkets
- Public transportation
- Indoor entertainment venues like theaters
- Places of worship
- Hair and beauty salons
- Gaming venues, including casinos
Staff in all hospitality venues and casinos must also wear masks.
Australia was able to successfully stop the virus’ spread last year by closing its borders to most travelers and enacting strict lockdowns. However, cases have increased in recent days.
New South Wales reported seven new locally acquired cases in the 24 hours to 8 p.m. local time Friday, with an additional 12 cases identified in returned travelers in hotel quarantine, according to the state government.
