BUSINESSES REMINDED TO DOWNLOAD NSW GOVERNMENT SERVICE NSW QR CODE

Hospitality businesses and hairdressers are being reminded to download and use the NSW Government's Service NSW QR code for registrations, or risk serious penalties, with the new rules taking effect from 1 January, 2021.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the Government's Service NSW QR code system is fast, free, accurate and private.

"The consequences of non-compliance and complacency when it comes to electronic record keeping are serious - it puts people's health at risk and destroys jobs," Mr Dominello said.

"The feedback we've received from contact tracers is that the Service NSW QR code is the most effective system in assisting NSW Health to protect the community.

"Our QR code also prevents the use of fake names as a customer's personal details are automatically captured via the Service NSW app when they scan their smartphone over the QR code.

"We must be vigilant and cannot rest on our laurels. Businesses are already required to have electronic registrations and this move will strengthen our resilience further.

"Non-compliance is easy to detect and won't be tolerated. Pursuant to the Public Health Orders you either have the Service NSW QR code or you don't. There will be no ifs or buts. Penalties include $5,000 on-the-spot fines, followed by a week's closure and month's closure if problems continue.

"About 50,000 NSW Government QR codes are being used by businesses and more than 2 million customers having scanned one of our QR codes, with 94 per cent giving it the thumbs up."

Mr Dominello encouraged customers to download the Service NSW app prior to the new rules taking effect on 1 January, 2021.

"It only takes minutes to do and seconds for businesses to check, which helps keep people safe and the economy open," Mr Dominello said.

Businesses are also required to ensure that they have sighted the customers' green tick prior to entry to comply with the orders.

Personal information obtained by businesses will be held securely by the Government and only used by NSW Health in the event of an outbreak. It will be destroyed after 28 days.

Customers without a smartphone will be able to register at businesses via other digital devices, such as an electronic form on a tablet.

The Government will consider expanding the mandate to other industries later in the new year and will keep the community informed.