Six months jail, $11,000 fines: New punishments in NSW as enforcement of coronavirus restrictions begin

Authorities around Australia are imploring the public to practise self-isolation measures as states and territories begin enforcing new restrictions to stop the spread of coronavirus.

The NSW government and its health authorities are ramping up efforts to contain the COVID-19 virus. (AAP) Source: AAP

People in New South Wales can now face six months in jail and fines of up to $11,000 for breaching a new ministerial directive giving police sweeping powers to enforce regulations aimed at curbing the spread of coronavirus.

The NSW Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order 2020, signed by health minister Brad Hazzard at 10:20pm on Monday night, makes it unlawful for people to leave their place of residence outside of 16 "reasonable excuses".

Read the full article in English here.