Get used to masks, Sydneysiders told

NSW’s top health official says people should “get used to” wearing face masks in public indoor spaces because it is likely to be the norm even after a vaccine is rolled out.

Complying with that requirement right now could help Sydney avoid a complete lockdown, according to the acting Premier.

“It’s probably prudent that we now get used to wearing masks whenever we’re indoors,” said Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant.

“As we get the population vaccinated and as we open our borders it’s unlikely the vaccination will eliminate COVID. We now will need to learn to live with it and some of the practices of mask wearing will be important.”

However, she warned against vigilantism.

“I would urge members of the community when they actually see someone not wearing a mask, leave that judgment to police or to other enforcement officers because you never know what is behind that for that individual,” Dr Chant said.

“While we want that peer pressure to wear masks, we also don’t want to turn it into making people reluctant to go and get their groceries, to seek healthcare, to go to the pharmacy. So let’s be compassionate.”

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said people who did not want to wear masks should not endanger the health of others.

About 50 people marched through Westfield Bondi Junction on Sunday afternoon chanting anti- mask messages.

Acting Premier John Barilaro said masks gave freedom of movement to the community.

“We don’t want to see further restrictions, we don’t want to go into lockdown,” Mr Barilaro said.