Premier Gladys Berejiklian has confirmed border restrictions between NSW and Victoria will be lifted this month.
Ms Berejiklian said on Wednesday the border will reopen on November 23.
“We need to keep moving forward as we live with COVID-19. I have confidence that everyone will continue to work hard to keep everyone safe,” she said.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the reopening date should give people the confidence to make plans, book holidays and reunite with family members in the lead up to Christmas.
“I want to thank the community, particularly in our border towns, for their patience during what has been an extremely difficult time,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We have worked closely with the Victorian Government throughout the border closure and will continue to monitor the situation as restrictions are eased.
“Our policy in NSW is to keep moving forward and operating in a COVID-Safe manner – the reopening of the NSW/Victorian border is another step in the right direction.”
The decision was made as NSW recorded nine new cases to 8pm on Tuesday night, of which six are in hotel quarantine and three were locally acquired. Meanwhile, Victoria recorded its fifth consecutive day of no new community COVID-19 cases and zero deaths on Wednesday.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said Monday, November 23 is two weeks from the Victorian Government removing the ‘ring of steel’ border around Melbourne, allowing Victorian residents to travel freely around the State.
“This will be good riddance to a border that COVID-19 forced on us,” Mr Hazzard said.
“Victorian and NSW residents’ efforts have ensured families and friends will be back together and businesses will operate freely but in a COVID-safe way.”
