NSW recorded zero new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 in the 24 hours to 8pm last night. There were 15 new cases in returning overseas travellers, bringing the total number of cases in NSW since the beginning of the pandemic to 5,275. In the 24 hours to 8pm last night, NSW Health administered 3,728 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, bringing the total number of doses administered in the state since 22 February 2021 to 608,538. More information here.

Australia has introduced a temporary pause on direct passenger flights between India and Australia for two weeks, with consideration of further flights to be made by 15 May 2021. Vulnerable Australians currently in India will be prioritised for return once flights resume. The halting of inbound flights has been done in response to the devastating wave of COVID-19 infections in India. The Australian Government will provide emergency medical supplies to the Indian Government, including rapid deployment of 500 non-invasive ventilators and a significant package of personal protective equipment (PPE). Read more here.

NSW Health has been notified that fragments of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been detected in the sewage systems at Allambie Heights from a sample taken on 27 April. This is the second detection in recent days, with the first detection from a sample taken on 22 April 2021. This sewage network services more than 83,000 people in the Northern Head catchment. These positive sewage results may indicate the presence of people who have recently recovered from COVID-19, as they can continue to shed fragments of the virus for several weeks after recovery. However, NSW Health is concerned they could signal undetected cases in the community, and asks people in these areas to be alert for any cold-like symptoms that could signal COVID 19 and get tested. More information here.

As of 19 April 2021, COVID-safe capacity on all public transport modes has been lifted to 75 per cent. This means people can now sit next to each other on their trip and be safe. However, the green dots will remain on board services in their current configuration in case they are required again. Whilst not mandatory, face masks are strongly recommended. For those wanting to explore regional NSW, TrainLink regional rail and coach services are able to be booked at 100 per cent capacity, providing even more travel options. More information here.

The Immunisation Coalition will be offering free influenza shots at Sydney Town Hall tomorrow, Friday 30 April. The shots are available to anyone over the age of 18, however it is recommended that people 65 years and older see their GP to get the recommended National Immunisation Program (NIP) vaccine for that age group. Register here.

Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg says the upcoming Budget will prioritise job creation and continuing to lower the unemployment rate. In a speech to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry today, the Treasurer said the government’s ongoing challenge will be to rebuild “fiscal buffers” in the post-COVID economy but he stressed this will not be done through “any sharp pivots towards austerity.” The Budget will be handed down on Tuesday 11 May. Read the Treasurer’s speech here.