Increased testing demands across the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) has caused significant delays in results, with the highest daily total of new cases expected to be reported on Christmas Day.

Up to 8pm last night there were 37 new cases in the WNSWLHD, although due to delays this is likely not reflective of the actual case numbers.

In the Western Plains, there were three cases recorded within the Warrumbungle Shire (one each for Coonabarabran, Coolah and Dunedoo), two in Nyngan, one in Bourke, one in Walgett Shire, one in Gilgandra, and one in Warren. 

Three patients have been admitted to hospital, though none have entered ICU. 

According to WNSWLHD, a lot of cases that were identified as positive beyond 8pm last night were located in the Dubbo LGA.

“Please be assured this is not a reason to panic, but we do all need to be aware of the heightened risk of COVID-19 transmission across our District right now and particularly in the Dubbo LGA,” the WNSWLHD reported.

Testing sites beyond full capacity have led to increased police presence at testing sites, following anti-social and aggressive behaviour as lengthy queues continue. 

In response to these reports, the NSW Police Force will deploy additional police tasked with proactively patrolling testing sites to ensure NSW Health staff can continue to do their vital job without being the target of abuse.

Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Police, Paul Toole, said extra police would be out in force at testing clinics across the state to protect frontline workers this Christmas.

“Our frontline health workers are giving up their Christmas to take care of the people of NSW, so police will have a strong presence at our busiest testing clinics, ready to deal with anyone taking out their frustrations on people trying to care for our community,” Mr Toole said.



“Anyone caught behaving in an offensive manner, or abusing/assaulting NSW Health staff, will be arrested and dealt with appropriately.”

While testing for precautionary purposes isn’t recommended without symptoms due to increasing pressure on the pathology systems, locals with symptoms are able to seek out testing opportunities by visiting the WNSWLHD website. 

Testing will continue over the Christmas period to limited capacities.