The NSW Government is now basing about 20 agencies dealing with the response to the COVID-19 outbreak at the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) headquarters at Lidcombe, including police, health, education and transport services, amongst others.

The Prime Minister has announced the National Cabinet has decided to close places where people gather in social groups regularly.

That will include clubs, pubs, cinemas, casinos and nightclubs from Midday tomorrow.

Restaurants and cafes will become takeaway only.

The PM has asked for co-operation around gatherings and social distancing to ensure no further measures are needed. He said this is stage 1, but further responses could be required.

In regards to schools - children will be able to access remote learning if parents want to take them out of school, but schools will remain open, and children should go to school tomorrow.

This is going to be extremely hard and my thoughts are with all individuals and businesses who are going to be directly impacted. Stay strong!

In line with health advice: This is an ever-changing situation, and we have to get used to a "new norm" in the way we interact and function. Please be patient and supportive.

Panic buying: Panic buying has been a hot topic of conversation in recent times, and it is irresponsible at a time when we need to be working together to ensure there is enough food, medication and sanitary products for everyone.

On Thursday I met with Dubbo pharmacist Greg Shearing to discuss the issues our chemists have been experiencing, with people stockpiling medications such as children's Panadol and Nurofen, and asthma preventers such as Ventolin.

New rules have been introduced to stop this from happening, as there are vulnerable people in our communities who have been denied access to the medication they need.

As is the case with other forms of panic buying, whether it be food items of toilet paper and paper towels, panic buying is unnecessary and highly discouraged.

A video of myself with Mr Shearing can be found here and can be used by media organisations if they so desire to spread the message

New rules at allow 24/7 deliveries: A terrific decision was made by the NSW Government on Friday, allowing supermarkets across the State to receive deliveries 24 hours a day to restock their shelves.

Collaboration between Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes means the Government has moved to override local council rules that restrict some stores from restocking their shelves and operating their loading docks outside regular business hours.

The State Environmental Planning Policy Amendment (COVID-19 Response) 2020 makes clear that truck deliveries are able to supply shops and retailers with essential goods at all times to support communities.

The new rules apply immediately and will be kept in place until the crisis is over.

Prevention: Everyone needs to be vigilant when it comes to personal hygiene.

This means cleaning hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.

It also means covering your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with tissue or a flexed elbow, avoiding close contact with anyone showing symptoms and practicing social distancing.

Who should I see? Hospitals are a last resort and should only be visited by people who have been overseas within the past 14 days, or those in direct contact with a confirmed case.

If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, call your local GP or the Health Direct hotline (1800 022 222).