Based on recent NSW Government announcements and updates to the Public Health Orders, covid-related restrictions continue to ease. As of Monday 18 October, Community Sport including matches are permitted. Outlined below is the framework within which rugby can safely operate.
Note that all items below refer only to fully vaccinated people aged 16 and over, children 15 years or younger and those with a valid medical exemption (medical certificate required).
• Rugby training including contact is now permitted.
• Rugby matches are permitted subject to the minimum Return to Play Guidelines for appropriate training being met – 14 days for 7s and 20 days for XVs.
• The maximum number of participants (players, officials and spectators) for a COVID-19 safe outdoor public gathering for a community sporting activity is now 1,000 people or no more that 1 person per 2sqm (whichever is the least).
• NSW Government has released a Community Sport COVID-19 Safety plan. This plan includes the new restrictions and has language which better reflects the nature of community sport, including the role of volunteers and the use of the Government QR code system. It is a requirement that each Club update/adopt their plan accordingly.
• Clubs must take “reasonable steps” to prevent unvaccinated people from attending training, matches and events. This includes having prominent signage, use of the Service NSW QR Code and checking vaccination status upon arrival and/or prior to participation. • It is also the responsibility of those participating in any gathering to comply with the vaccination or medical exemption requirements and obey the Public Health Orders at all times.
• People from Greater Sydney are not able to travel to areas considered “Regional” and vice versa until at least 1 November 2021.
• The NSW Government Roadmap currently advices that from 1 December Community Sport will be open to all people. Further information will be provided in due course to assist with any obligations that may be in place at that time.
Below is a list of resources which have been prepared by NSW Rugby Union and the NSW Government to assist with a Return to Rugby and Covid-19 Safe gatherings.
• 7s Return to Training and Playing Guidelines
• XVs Return to Training and Playing Guidelines
• Community Sport COVID Safe Plan Template
• Proof of vaccination requirements Fact Sheet
• Guidance on vaccination compliance and obligations Fact Sheet
• Download appropriate COVID-19 Safe Posters and signage toolkit
• Getting a QR codes and check-in requirements.
Additional information to navigate these current restrictions are located at the Office of Sport website.
Paul Doorn Chief Executive Officer
