Mask mandate lifted on public transport in NSW

Masks will no longer be mandatory on public transport in NSW from Wednesday. Here is what you need to know.

Commuters will no longer be forced to wear masks on public transport in NSW, with the Covid-19 rule set to ease this week.

Masks will no longer be required on public transport – including taxis and rideshare services, in transport waiting areas and the indoor areas of cruise terminals – from Wednesday.

“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,” Premier Dominic Perrottet said.

Masks will no longer be required on public transport from Wednesday. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Swift

NSW Health still recommends people wear masks where they cannot physically distance, as well as where there are vulnerable people and those who are at high risk of severe illness.

“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,” Health Minister Brad Hazzard said.

“Wearing a mask in these settings will not only protect those around you, but will also reduce your risk of infection.

“We can all continue to help protect each other, 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.”

Premier Dominic Perrottet said it was a common sense approach. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Monique Harmer

Transport Minister David Elliott welcomed the decision to bring the mask mandate for commuters in line with other states for 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,” Mr Elliott said.

“Commuters will be pleased to hear this news, as they will now be 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.

Originally published as Mask mandate lifted on public transport in NSW