The new NSW-Victoria border permit rules explained

People living by the NSW-Victoria border will need a permit to cross into Victoria as of 6pm as the Victorian Government fights to stop the NSW COVID-19 outbreak spreading.

The new rule, announced by Premier Daniel Andrews on Wednesday, will be enforced from this evening, meaning anyone travelling without a permit could end up in hotel quarantine with a $5452 fine.

Mr Andrews said the strict measure was needed so the government could have a clear sense of exactly who was moving between the border towns as the virus continued to spread.

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"If this virus can get from Sydney to Byron Bay, to Dubbo to Armidale to Tamworth, then only a fool would think it couldn't get to Albury," he said.

"It absolutely can, and that means we need to go beyond just a bubble."

Here's everything you need to know about the Extreme Risk Zone Permit system.

Who will need a permit?

Adults living in the NSW-Victoria cross border community who want to enter Victoria for one of the following permitted reasons:

• Necessary goods and services, including medical care and getting a COVID-19 test
• Care and compassionate reasons
• Paid or voluntary work
• Education (including childcare and early childhood services)
• Getting a COVID-19 vaccination
• Sport and exercise at a sporting club or facility (excluding alpine resorts)
• Visiting an intimate partner
• Moving house, inspecting a property or attending an auction
• Driving someone who cannot drive themselves for one of the above reasons
• Travelling between places in Victoria where it is easier to travel through NSW

Anyone under the age of 18 will not need a permit.

Who is in the NSW-Victoria cross border community?

In Victoria, the border bubble community includes people living in Alpine Shire Council, Greater Bendigo, Greater Shepparton, Wodonga, Benalla, Mildura, Swan Hill, Wangaratta, Buloke, Campaspe, East Gippsland, Gannawarra, Indigo, Loddon, Moira, Towong and Yarriambiack.

In NSW, it includes Balranald, Bega Valley, Berrigan, Albury, Broken Hill, Edward River, Federation, Greater Hume, Murray River, Snowy Monaro Snowy Valleys and Wentworth Shire.

How do you get a permit?

Permits can be quickly sought online at Services Victoria.

Do you need a new permit for each border crossing?

Permits are valid for 14 days and can be used as many times as needed during that time.

What if you don't get a permit?

Anyone who is caught crossing into Victoria without a valid permit could be subject to a fine of up to $5452 and could be forced into Hotel Quarantine.

When will permits be needed until?

Permits will be needed for the near future. It has not been announced when they will not be needed, but it is likely to be when the NSW COVID-19 outbreak is further under control.