Hunter residents can now be hit with an $11,000 fine for leaving the home without a reasonable excuse, under tough new measures introduced over night.
Acceptable excuses include obtaining food or other goods and services; travelling for work or education if the person cannot do it at home; exercise; and medical or caring reasons.
Travelling for the purposes of attending childcare or school, including picking up or dropping off another person is also permitted.
Attending a wedding or a funeral under certain circumstances, moving to or inspecting a new place of residence, providing emergency assistance, donating blood and undertaking legal obligations are also permitted.
Accessing public services including social, employment, domestic violence, mental health and services provided to victims are also allowed.
Children who do not live in the same household as parents or siblings can continue with existing arrangements to keep in contact with family members.
A person who is a priest, minister of religion or member of a religious order can go to the person’s place of worship or provide pastoral care to another person.
Penalties for an individual who fails to comply include a fine of up to $11,000, six months jail, or both, plus a further $5500 fine each day the offence continues.
Corporations that fail to comply are liable to a fine of $55,000 and $27,500 each day the offence continues.
