New $5,000 on-the-spot fine for spitting, coughing on frontline workers in New South Wales

The NSW Health Minister has announced a $5,000 fine for anyone coughing, spitting on or intimidating frontline workers amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Brad Hazzard made the announcement this afternoon, describing the abuse of essential workers during the pandemic as unacceptable and ridiculous.

"Unfortunately, we have had a series of incidences now where some of the most incredible frontline workers, keeping us safe, have actually had people spitting on them, and people coughing on them," he said.

"These frontline workers are caring for us and the simple fact is, we need to care for them so this on the spot $5,000 fine will send a clear message that we are all as one," he added.

This includes doctors, nurses, cleaners, midwifes, police, border force and retail workers.

"We are telling you stop it, or you will cop it with a $5,000 fine."

Mr Hazzard was joined by Gerard Hayes from the Health Services Union, Brad Holmes from the nurses and midwives Association and Tony King from the NSW Police Association.

"Each of these union leaders are here because they share the same concern that our government does, indeed, I think every member of our community does," the NSW Health Minister said.

"It is appalling behaviour and I am so sad our government has had to respond in this way," he added.

"The virus has infected thousands of health workers around the world and killed many, so if you deliberately risk people's health you will be fined and possibly imprisoned."

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