While a lot has been spoken about unvaccinated employees being unable to return to work from the start of next week, the region's top health official has said that "logically" the same applies to business owners.
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Police have previously stated that on the spot fines of $1000 may apply to individuals for not complying, or for using fraudulent evidence of vaccination or check-in.
On the spot fines of $5000 may apply to businesses for not complying with the Public Health Order vaccination requirements. Further penalties may apply for significant breaches.
Speaking on Thursday, Western NSW Local Health District chief executive, Scott McLachlan said business owners would need to follow the same COVID rules as their employees.
"I think the basic reality is for every business owner ... getting vaccinated is the most crucial thing that will protect you, your business and your customers coming in," he said.
"The changes that come into effect mean that all employees of business need to have at least one dose and have plans for a second dose by November 1.
"That logically applies to anyone in those businesses that are customer facing and have contact with their fellow workers. The practical reality says that everyone should be getting vaccinated as quickly as possible."
Deputy premier Paul Toole confirmed regional workers can return to work from October 11 with one dose of vaccination, with a grace period until November 1 for them to receive a second dose. Those without any vaccination and no medical exemption are not allowed, although people can still work from home.
The news came on the same day that it was revealed there has been a drastic decline in people getting vaccinated across Western NSW.
"(Wednesday) saw the lowest number of people vaccinated in the last two months. Only 375 came to get a vaccination, whether it was a follow up vaccination or a first dose," Mr McLachlan added.
"We know that with high rates of vaccination in the region, this is going to be something that we see in coming days and weeks. We're incredibly concerned that we still have 30 per cent of the community to have a second dose and at least 10 per cent to have a first dose. We're still seeing a reasonable number of people not turning up for the second dose."
He asked that those no longer requiring a vaccination through the WNSWLHD message them on Facebook to cancel their appointment.
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