Permit can prevent Sydney quarantine

Published on 11 August 2020

Mayor Darriea Turley AM has sought clarification from the NSW Government around strict new quarantine laws for NSW residents returning from Victoria.

On August 5 the NSW Government announced that all NSW people returning from Victoria would have to quarantine in a Sydney hotel at their own expense for 14 days.

The measures were met with concern by a number of locals who need to travel to Mildura to medical reasons and were facing the prospect of footing bills for air travel and accommodation.

However after meeting with Government officials yesterday, Mayor Turley said locals could avoid the quarantine by gaining the appropriate permit.

"There are a lot of rules, regulations, and permits required for different border closure and I think it's left everyone a little confused," said Mayor Turley.

Locals travelling to Mildura for medical reasons can avoid a Sydney quarantine by acquiring a "person entering for medical or hospital except in emergency situation - NSW resident permit".

If you have a person entering for medical or hospital except in emergency situation - NSW resident permit, you will not need to self-isolate on your return provided that:

• A medical practitioner has certified that the medical or hospital services you received are necessary to treat or maintain your health

• The service is not available locally and cannot be accessed remotely (for example: online or by telehealth)

• You have travelled directly to where your medical service is provided and return home directly after.

• You have not been in an area that is a restricted area in accordance with an Area Direction made under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 of Victoria within the previous 14 days.

The permit can be obtained via the Service NSW website here: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-covid-19-nsw-border-entry-permit