District Court NSW & Dust Diseases Tribunal NSW Covid Protocol Update

04/10/2022

Practice Support: Covid-19

The District Court NSW has advised the Bar Association that in view of changes in Federal and State Government policies and health advice, the mandatory requirement for all court participants, including jurors, to wear face masks will end from Thursday, 6 October 2022.

Face masks are no longer required to be worn in courtrooms or public areas of the District Court or Dust Diseases Tribunal, unless a court participant is a household or close contact of someone who has tested positive to COVID-19. However, a trial Judge retains a discretion to require face masks to be worn in the courtroom.

Paragraph 30 (the mandatory wearing of face masks) of Criminal Practice Note 27 will cease to operate from 6 October 2022.

All of the requirements concerning Rapid Antigen Self-Testing under Criminal Practice Note 27 will continue until further advised.

The Court continues to encourage face mask wearing in courtrooms, jury assembly areas and jury rooms. Anyone who wishes to wear a face mask is welcome to do so.