Masks will no longer be mandatory on NSW public transport from tomorrow, Wednesday 21 September.
The NSW Government says it will remove the requirement for people to wear masks on public transport, including taxis and rideshare services, in transport waiting areas and the indoor areas of cruise terminals.
Premier Dominic Perrottet said, ‘This is a common sense approach that brings the rules into line for people travelling on buses or trains with those for planes and airport terminals.’
No mandate doesn’t mean no one needs a mask
NSW Health continues to recommend that people wear masks where they cannot physically distance from others, and in settings where there are vulnerable people and those who are at high risk of severe illness.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said masks still play a significant role in reducing the risk of transmission.
‘Continuing to wear a mask in crowded areas will be particularly important for people who have underlying health conditions or who are vulnerable to COVID-19 infection for other reasons,’ he said.
‘Wearing a mask in these settings will not only protect those around you, but will also reduce your risk of infection,’ said Mr Hazzard.
‘We can all continue to help protect each other, but particularly those most vulnerable to COVID-19 infection, by staying at home when feeling unwell, taking a COVID-19 test straight away and self-isolating.’
Welcome decision
Minister for Transport, Veterans and Western Sydney David Elliott said he welcomed the decision to bring the mask mandate for commuters in line with arrangements in other states, domestic travel, venues and events.
‘Everyone has demonstrated throughout this pandemic that they will do what is required to protect themselves and each other from COVID-19 and I have no doubt they will continue to do so,’ said Mr Elliott.
‘Commuters will be pleased to hear this news as they will now able to make a personal decision and have a choice about when they wear a mask – particularly in outdoor public transport areas.’
Mask wearing will remain mandatory at public hospitals, private health facilities and residential aged care facilities.
NSW Health says it will also continue to work with SafeWork NSW and business groups to support workplaces to safely manage COVID-19.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
