NSW must keep lockdown measures in place: AMA (NSW) 

AMA (NSW) is calling on the Premier to stay the course on lockdowns in NSW while our health system struggles to cope with the current demand. 
 
“We know people are tired, want to see their families, and are increasingly vaccinated, but this is not the time to ease restrictions at any level,” said AMA (NSW) President, Dr Danielle McMullen. 
 
“We understand the desire for certainty, and we think discussion about modelling and vaccination rates is important. However, NSW has not achieved the vaccination rates or lowered the case numbers significantly enough to make any changes to current restrictions. 
 
“We have seen our public hospitals needing to close vital services and now being overwhelmed with COVID patients. We have other health services being curtailed across the state. When it comes to decisions about restrictions, health must come first, and we cannot ease restrictions while our health system is struggling,” Dr McMullen said. 
 
“All of NSW needs to remain committed to supporting each other by maintaining restrictions across LGAs and regions, even where case numbers are different.  
 
“COVID has hit some of our most vulnerable populations and we must all stand together to get through this. Western Sydney and South Western Sydney have been hit hardest to date, but the Delta variant is so contagious – it really does not matter where you live, COVID can impact any one. 
 
“Again, to the people of NSW, we all understand the frustration and the need for hope. We recognise the impact of lockdowns on our mental health and financial security. But now is the time to stay home, to mask up, and most importantly, to get vaccinated. 
 
“GPs are waiting for you right now with vaccines and spaces available.  
 
“Now is the time to support our communities and our healthcare workers. Now is not the time for tinkering with restrictions,” Dr McMullen said.

Media contact: Andrea Cornish 0419 402 955