Use of the Service NSW QR code is to be mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from next Monday 12 July.
Minister for Digital and Minister for Customer Service, Victor Dominello said expanding the mandate would give NSW Health contact tracers real-time access to QR code data from a greater number of venues.
“This is about keeping customers and staff safe and getting all businesses open again as soon as possible,” Mr Dominello said.
“We know the Delta variant of COVID-19 moves quickly and we must do everything we can to get it under control,” he said.
“While many retail businesses, including large supermarkets and hardware chains, have voluntarily adopted the Service NSW QR code, this measure will ensure check-in rates are high across the board and contact tracers have access to reliable records.”
Mr Dominello said the expanded mandate included retail businesses and supermarkets; individual shops within shopping centres; shopping centres; gyms; offices and call centres; manufacturing and warehousing; universities and TAFE; as well as schools, including teachers and visitors but excluding students.
The Minister said businesses would have to take reasonable steps to ensure people entering their premises checked-in using the Service NSW QR codes or digital sign-in sheet.
“Businesses such as hospitality and hairdressers that were already using the Service NSW QR code will also need to ensure staff and visitors such as maintenance workers and delivery drivers check-in, when they resume services after the lockdown period,” he said.
“Hospitality businesses will now need to extend the use of the Service NSW COVID-Safe check-in to all customers, including takeaway orders.”
Mr Dominello said businesses that failed to comply with the new health order requirements may be subject to fines and, in case of flagrant breaches, temporary closure orders.
