'Better to hand out a mask than a fine': Calls for free masks to promote mandate We’re sorry, this service is currently unavailable. Please try again later. Dismiss 'Better to hand out a mask than a fine': Calls for free masks to promote mandate Normal text size Advertisement The NSW government has ordered mandatory face masks in Greater Sydney from Sunday to fight the city's growing COVID-19 outbreak, prompting calls for the distribution of free face masks to keep the public on side. Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced face masks would be compulsory in public indoor settings from midnight on Saturday, including on public transport, with a 24-hour grace period before $200 on-the-spot fines would apply from Monday. Children under the age of 12 are exempt, as well as people with certain medical conditions.