Case numbers are continuing to grow. There are still missing links in the chains of transmission, which suggests there'll be more cases out there that the authorities are yet to find.
Without mandatory masks and stay at home orders across Sydney, we do not have confidence that the situation remains safe.
That's why from 11:59pm tonight, the Greater Sydney area and the Central Coast will be designated a 'red zone'.
People who live in these areas or have visited since 11 December cannot enter our state.
Anyone from the red zone found trying to enter Victoria in breach of these orders will be subject to mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine.
For Victorians currently in Greater Sydney or on the Central Coast, you'll have until 11:59pm on Monday 21 December to return home.
You'll need to register for an exemption on the Service Victoria website and get tested within 24 hours of your return.
You'll then need to self-quarantine at home for 14 days from the date you were last in a red zone.
DHHS teams will be checking on people to make sure they have everything they need – and to make sure they're at home.
Anyone currently in the Northern Beaches 'hot zone' – including Victorians – remain under the NSW Chief Health Officer's stay at home orders and will not be permitted to travel to Victoria.
Victoria Police are setting up additional border check-points to ensure only those with permits are allowed to cross into our state.
Regional New South Wales remains a green zone, but residents will still need a valid permit to enter Victoria.
People living in local government areas along both sides of the border will be able to use their driver's licence as a passport to travel between Victoria and NSW.
We're also working with the ACT Govt to stop travellers from the red zone entering Victoria via Canberra Airport.
I know lots of families will be feeling pretty gutted – especially since we've all waited so long for that special time together.
But let's face it – nothing could be as disappointing as seeing all our sacrifices evaporate. Nothing is worth that risk.
Just finally – this will only work if we all do the right thing.
Please don't look for loopholes or try and skirt the rules.
Your family, your community and your state depend on it.
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I know people are concerned about what's happening in NSW.
There's no need to panic – but we absolutely can't afford to get complacent. We all have to take this seriously.
So here's what we're going to do:
From 11.59pm tonight, we're introducing a permit system for everyone entering VIC from NSW. Anyone who has been to the Nthn Beaches & other hotspots (red zone) won't be allowed to enter. Arrivals from these areas after 11.59pm will be transferred to hotel quarantine for 14 days.
People travelling from Greater Sydney (orange zone) are encouraged to get tested on arrival and self quarantine until they receive a negative result.
And we're asking anyone coming from regional NSW (green zone) to monitor for symptoms.
I'm pleased to announce that after extensive discussion between the Department of Health and the Department of Elf, Santa will be permitted entry to Victoria this Christmas.
Mr Claus and nine reindeer have passed all the necessary tests, and will follow strict instructions to only deliver presents to very good Victorian children.
I just got off a call to deliver the good news, and outline the minimum distance and density requirements for Santa and his little helpers.
Mr Claus agreed that the only thing he and his team will be spreading this Christmas is fun, joy – and a bit of spirit too.
From Madrid to Mumbai, Michigan to Melbourne – the pandemic has laid bare the true cost of insecure work.
With no leave entitlements to fall back on, too many people have been forced into an impossible situation with impossible decisions.
Going to work ill or an empty bank account. The safety of your community or feeding your family. Your health or your rent.
Insecure workers shouldered the burden – but everyone paid the price. And pandemic or not, the principle's the same: no one should be put in this position.
That's why we're stepping in where no one else has.
Our Secure Work Pilot Scheme will provide up to five days of sick or carer's pay for casual and insecure workers in industries where it's needed most – and creating a safety net for those without one.