You need to sign in with a QR code if you’re at work in NSW or even just getting a takeaway

Signing in on the Service NSW QR code is mandatory at all workplaces and retail businesses from today, July 12.

The change comes as Sydney recorded a record 112 locally acquired cases in the 24 hours to 8pm Sunday.

More than half, 64, are linked to a known case or cluster, including 41 as household contacts and 23 as close contacts, while the source of infection for 48 cases remains under investigation.

Meanwhile, the number of venues NSW Health is investigating has escalated to include several new sites in Fairfield and Kogarah, as well as a pharmacy in Sydney’s CBD.

Please check the NSW Government website regularly, as the list of venues of concern and relevant health advice are being updated as investigations continue: https://t.co/yeO2xfqjmG

— NSW Health (@NSWHealth) July 11, 2021

While students will learn from home this week, and the lockdown looks set to continue beyond the current July 16 deadline, the government has made it compulsory for businesses to display the Service NSW QR code and “take reasonable steps” to ensure people entering their premises check-in using the codes or digital sign-in sheet.

That includes offices, including call centres, manufacturing and warehousing sites, universities, TAFE, and schools including teachers and visitors (such as parents and contractors), but excluding students.

Employees in offices are also expected to sign in daily.

NSW Digital and Customer Service minister Victor Dominello said the new rules will give NSW Health contact tracers real-time access to QR code data from venues including supermarkets, retail stores and offices.

“This is about keeping customers and staff safe and getting all businesses open again as soon as possible,” he said.

“While many retail businesses, including large supermarkets and hardware chains, have voluntarily adopted the Service NSW QR code, this measure will ensure check-in rates are high across the board and contact tracers have access to reliable records.”

Businesses such as hospitality and hairdressers already using the Service NSW QR code will also need to ensure staff and visitors such as maintenance workers and delivery drivers check-in, when they resume services after the lockdown period.

Hospitality businesses will now need to extend the use of the Service NSW COVID-Safe check-in to all customers including takeaway orders.

Businesses that don’t comply with the new requirements may be subject to fines and in case of flagrant breaches, temporary closure orders.

The minister said that there are more than 5.2 million active users of the Service NSW app and the data captured by the COVID-Safe check-in app is only used for the contact tracing by NSW Health and deleted after 28 days.

Businesses who need to register for the NSW Government QR code can find the application form online at nsw.gov.au/register-your-business-as-covid-safe

For visitors without a digital device, other check-in forms must be available.