NSW Lismore and Albury entering lockdown / other LGAs lifting lockdown

The New South Wales State Government announced that the local government areas (LGAs) of Lismore and Albury will enter stay-at-home orders for a period of seven-days starting at 6pm AEST tonight, Thursday 16 September. For more information click here.

It is the Association's understanding that therapeutic massage therapists, remedial massage therapists and myotherapists who live or work in those LGAs are permitted to work during the stay-at-home orders under the following conditions:

• Treatment takes place in a clinic or home-based clinic that meets Clinical Settings Guidelines
• The clinic has implemented the Service NSW QR Code app
• Both therapists and clients wear face masks at all times
• The clinic has a COVID-Safety plan in place

Please note that all non-essential treatments should be postponed for the duration of the stay-at-home orders.

It is the Association's understanding that mobile massage is not permitted in these LGAs, or in any part of NSW by a therapist who lives in one of these LGAs, for the duration of the stay-at-home orders.

Massage & Myotherapy Australia will continue to monitor the situation and notify members if there are any changes to these directions.

List of LGAs leaving lockdown

Stay-at-home orders will be lifted in twelve regional LGAs across the state from 1pm AEST today, Thursday 16 September. These LGAs are:

• Bega
• Blayney
• Bogan
• Cabonne
• Dungog
• Forbes
• Muswellbrook
• Narrabri
• Parkes
• Singleton
• Snowy Monaro
• Upper Hunter

Face masks must continue to be worn by both therapists and clients but routine services will be permitted.

Curfews lifted in areas of concern

Yesterday, the NSW government ended curfews in the areas of concern. For more information click here.

List of support services available

Mental Health and Anxiety	Business and Financial Assistance
Beyond Blue Support for those dealing with depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Black Dog Institute Resources for anxiety and stress caused by COVID-19. Lifeline A 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service. MensLine Australia Health and relationship advice for men. NewAccess for Small Business Owners A free and confidential mental health coaching program, developed by Beyond Blue to give small business owners, including sole traders the support they need. Suicide Call Back Service Free counselling for suicide prevention and mental health via telephone, online and video for anyone affected by suicidal thoughts, 24/7.	AusGov COVID-19 Payments Payments and services during COVID-19 Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Tax assistance for those struggling through adversity. COVID-19 Disaster Payment This is a lump sum payment to help workers unable to earn income due to a COVID-19 state public health order. MoneySmart For those who require financial support.
	Other
	National Coronavirus Helpline A 24-hour a day number to call for COVID-19 questions or concerns. Fair Work Ombudsman If you feel you have been unfairly dismissed from work.