"As a parent and community member, I fully appreciate and understand the communities concerns for your safety and that of your family and loved ones. Please know that I hear your concerns and take my role, and our role as a city, in ensuring the health and safety of our community very seriously," said Mayor Khal Asfour.

"Rest assured that we are doing everything possible to protect our entire community. This includes ensuring our essential services, like waste collection, road repairs and Meals on Wheels, continue to take place.

"The health of our community and staff are our first priority, and as a result we have had to make some difficult decisions.

"Effective from tomorrow Wednesday 18 March all swimming pools will be closed to the public. This includes the Learn to Swim Program which will be suspended until further notice.

"In addition, library services will be restricted with a reduction in the number of people as well as locations operating. At this stage Bankstown, Campsie, Chester Hill and Riverwood will remain open with restrictions, however this may change as advice from the Government is updated.

"This is in line with the Government directive to implement social distancing measures.

"Major events that involve the gathering of more than 500 people, such as Ramadan Nights Lakemba, have been cancelled and smaller non-essential events are being reviewed.

"While some services are being restricted, Council will be reallocating staff and resources to support the delivery of essential services and support the vulnerable in our community.

"Meals on Wheels is one such critical service supporting our most vulnerable community. As a result, I have now put in place new measures to ensure this vital service continues.

"We have increased our cleaning practices in public spaces and community facilities, reviewed our cleaning supplies and placed visual reminders about good hand washing practices at our community facilities and Council workplaces.

"At this point in time, we are planning for the next Council meeting to go ahead, but as you will appreciate this is an evolving situation and we are continuing to monitor the latest advice from the relevant government authorities.

"We are doing our bit to make sure we’re prepared but everyone has a role to play in slowing the spread of the virus.

"We are asking the community to practice good hand washing practices, keep a bit of a distance from people where you can and look after each other, like we always have."

For more information, visit cb.city/coronavirus