There was some confusion when Shellharbour wasn't initially put in a 14-day lockdown like neighbouring local government area Wollongong.
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Especially considering the fact Shellharbour had been included as part of greater Sydney restrictions earlier in the week.
And, with health authorities trying to regain control of a coronavirus outbreak which has ballooned to 80 cases, it was surprising when it was announced that only Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong would go into a 14-day lockdown.
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward told the Mercury why the government changed its mind and included Shellharbour after all.
"Initially Shellharbour was not mentioned in the initial announcement but after further investigations by health authorities, the health advice was updated on the basis of a risk assessment," Mr Ward said.
"That means if you live in the Shellharbour LGA you will be in lockdown along with Wollongong.
"To make it abundantly clear, if you have visited a local government area in lockdown, you will also have to isolate, and only leave your home for a prescribed reason such as work, obtaining food and essential items, or seeking medical advice or assistance.
"To be clear around essential workers, this is any work that can't be done from home. There is no definition of essential worker, other than work that can not be done from home.
"For example, if you live in Kiama but must attend your place of work in Wollongong, you can do this but you will have to follow the stay at home processes when you return from work, and only leave for a prescribed reason."
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