"As Easter and the school holidays approach, we understand families want to travel to celebrate or holiday. Unfortunately this cannot occur in line with the current health directions", Commander of the South Coast Police District, Superintendent Greg Moore said.

The NSW Premier and the NSW Health Minister have outlined orders under the Public Health Act that state a person must not leave their home without a reasonable excuse.

"Shopping for food, travelling to/from work/educational institution (when the person cannot work/learn from home), attending to medical needs (or carers responsibilities), brief exercise in your own neighbourhood (two people only or family unit), attending a wedding/funeral or moving house are all reasonable excuses. Recreational travel is not a reasonable excuse," Mr Moore said.

"Travel and holidays are not essential at this time. Holidays are not on that list of exemptions," Mr Moore added.

"These measures are in place for good reason and we must adhere to them to protect our smaller communities too. An influx of visitors could put their health systems under pressure, whilst potentially transferring the COVID-19 virus from one part of the state to another."

Mr Moore said police attached to the South Coast Police District would be out in force, patrolling roads and conducting high visibility policing operations.

"Along with traffic law enforcement, these officers will be targeting unnecessary travel. Persons detected travelling without a reasonable excuse will be directed to return to their home address. If there is an identified breach, police can issue a Penalty Infringement Notice. This on-the-spot fine is $1000 for individuals and $5000 for businesses," Mr Moore said.

People can report non-compliance with public health orders through CrimeStoppers www.nsw.crimestoppers.com.au