Australians will be in lockdown until JUNE admits police boss as nation’s coronavirus cases rise to 4,980 – and he’s checking social distancing fines personally
- Police Commissioner Mick Fuller revealed restrictions will last at least 90 days
- He said he would not seek to extend new police powers beyond that time
- Premier thanked 500 businesses which have signed up to make supplies
- Cases in NSW rose by 116 over past 24 hours, taking national total to 4,980
- Coronavirus symptoms: what are they and should you see a doctor?
Level three coronavirus restrictions in New South Wales will last for 90 days, it was revealed this morning.
Police Commissioner Mick Fuller said he would not seek to extend new powers that allow police to fine people breaking social distancing rules beyond that time.
He said: ‘There was a good question yesterday about when is the turn off period for these health orders. It is 90 days. I certainly won’t be seeking an extension.
Level three restrictions in New South Wales will last for 90 days, it was revealed this morning
‘Hopefully people will have got the message by then and we won’t be talking about the powers, we will just be talking about what does it look like coming out of this.’
Mr Fuller did not say if the lock down would be lifted in 90 days.
Heavy restrictions which ban gatherings of more than two were introduced in the state on 30 March.
Mr Fuller also revealed he was personally checking every $1,000 fine issued regarding social distancing rules.
‘I’m reviewing all of these tickets personally, which would never happen again for any other time,’ he said.
‘And I’ll continue to do that. And if I think it’s unreasonable, it will be withdrawn immediately and we’ll make personal contact with the individual.’
Premier Gladys Berejiklian has asked companies around New South Wales to help make medical supplies
He also clarified that people who sit on park benches will be moved on by police.
New South Wales recorded 116 cases in the past 24 hours, taking the state’s total to 2,292.
The national total at 8am was 4,980, with 20 deaths.
Premier Gladys Berejikilan thanked 500 businesses which have signed up to help make hand sanitiser and medical supplies.
She said: ‘Thank you to each and every one of you.
‘Our people will now follow up to see what opportunities we have, to see what we can manufacture here in New South Wales, to really ensure that we have the medical equipment we need during the next few weeks and months.’
Australia imports much of its medical equipment such as masks and gloves – but the supply has been severely disrupted as countries stop exporting them.
On Wednesday Ms Berejiklian asked companies to help, saying: ‘Today I’m calling on the great people of our state, those great business people, those manufacturers who are able to re-tool, to consider re-tooling.’
Companies who want to help can sign up here.
