NSW Government introduces new restrictions as Coronavirus cases rise

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced a raft of new COVID-19 restrictions for Greater Sydney as of yesterday, including the introduction of mandatory mask-wearing in a range of public locations.

With a pre-Christmas Coronavirus outbreak having led to a lockdown of the area and business closures, the measures follow an increasing number of outbreaks across the city.

In an aim to halt further outbreaks, the new measures make the wearing of masks compulsory on public transport, in shops and in many other indoor venues.

As of midnight on Saturday, anyone picking up groceries, going to the movies, heading to the salon or going to places of worship in Greater Sydney is now required to wear a mask.

Fines of $200 can be issued for non-compliance.

Greater Sydney includes the regions of Central Coast, Wollongong and Nepean Blue Mountains, which the NSW Government has grouped together.

The maximum amount of people allowed to gather when exercising, heading to sporting events and entertainment venues has also changed.

Gym classes must comprise of up to 30 people, down from the previous maximum of 50.

Performances that take place outdoors can have 500 people in attendance, like outdoor cinemas, for instance - reduced down from 1,000.

Venues which are seated, ticketed and enclosed - like big sporting events - have been reduced back to a maximum capacity of 2,000 people.

Despite this, the NSW Government expects the third cricket Test to go ahead with fans at the Sydney Cricket Ground as of Thursday.

Places of worship can only welcome 100 people, or one person per 4 metre², whichever comes first - down from 300.

Weddings and funerals will only be allowed to have 100 people in attendance, or one person per 4 metre².

Cinemas and theatres will require patrons to wear a mask while staff at hospitality venues like cafes, bars, restaurants, pubs or clubs will also be subject to mandatory masks.

Patrons will not need to wear a mask, unless they are using the gaming services.

Night clubs and dancing venues are not permitted to operate.

Footage taken on New Year's Eve showing large crowds inside Sydney's Luna Park has sparked an investigation into possible public health order breaches.