NSW issued 501 fines to children under 15 in past year for not wearing or carrying mask

Redfern Legal Centre says $20,000 in fines issued is unjust' and sets children up for failure'

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About 500 children aged under 15 were fined a total of $20,000 for not wearing or carrying a mask in New South Wales in the past 12 months, including 34 who remain in an unpaid work and development scheme to reduce their debts.

The state government has faced sustained criticism for its pursuit of children over Covid rule breaches, particularly given the confusing and shifting nature of public health orders and the disproportionate impact Covid fines are having on the most disadvantaged.

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