Byron Bay, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Ballina Shire will go into lockdown from 6pm AEST.

“The rules for these areas will be the same as those already in place across Greater Sydney, as well as Tamworth, Armidale, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Singleton, Dungog, Muswellbrook and Cessnock,” reads a statement from the state’s health department.

“Everyone in these areas must stay at home unless they have a reasonable excuse to leave. They also cannot have visitors in their home from outside their household, including family and friends.”

The restrictions will be in place until 12.01am August 17.

The decision to lockdown residents of the region follows news that a 50 year old man travelled from Sydney to Byron Bay while infectious. The man, who is now in hospital, spent five days in the community. He also visited Ballina and Casino.

NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said earlier today that investigations were underway as to why the man had left Sydney.

At today’s press conference, Chant called for Byron Bay residents to get tested, but no lockdown was announced.

The backflip means the town now joins Tamworth in lockdown. Tamworth entered lockdown at 5pm AEST after a woman from Newcastle travelled to the city while infectious.