NSW Cafe Divides Opinion For Its 'No Mask, Don't Ask' Policy

A cafe in New South Wales has sparked controversy with its 'no mask, don't ask' policy.

At the moment, residents across the state have to wear a face mask when they're inside anywhere that isn't their home.

The only reason why you shouldn't be wearing a face mask is if you have a medical exemption (which only applies to a very small collection of people).

However, Nectar Juice House at Cabarita Beach, near Tweed Heads doesn't believe you should automatically assume people's health status.

That's why their policy will assume that if people aren't wearing a mask it's because they have an exemption and staff won't force customers to prove it.

A sign in their cafe reads: "The NSW government has mandated mask use indoors but please be aware, if you're not wearing one we will assume you're exempt, no questions asked.

"We don't do judgements, shaming or discrimination here, so please know you will be warmly welcomed and respected however you show up."

It added on Instagram: "Whilst we are taking the current Covid situation very seriously and our staff are wearing masks for yours and our safety - we do not know your situation. If you choose not to wear one, that is your prerogative. Everyone is welcome in our cafe."

The cafe's co-owner, Kate Samson, insists they aren't a bunch of anti-vaxxers and also clarified they weren't the ones who made the sign.

Kate explained that two girls distributed signs in the area and several other businesses have displayed them as well.

The policy has won praise with some people who follow the cafe on social media.

One customer wrote: "As an Autistic person who feels extreme sensory discomfort and anxiety from wearing masks- but is often to anxious to explain and doesn't want people to assume I'm an anti masker of some kind- thank you."

Another said: "This is AMAZING!!! Honestly, every business needs to address mask wearing in this way! Well done to you guys."

However, the idea goes against what health authorities would prefer businesses do as people's compliance with face masks has been patchy during the pandemic.

It's especially concerning considering the cafe is close to the 'anti-vaxx capital of Australia': Mullumbimby.

Topics: Australia

Stewart Perrie

Stewart Perrie is a Trending Journalist at LADbible. His first job was as a newsreader and journalist at the award winning Sydney radio station, Macquarie Radio. He was solely responsible for the content broadcast on multiple stations across Australia when the MH17, Germanwings and AirAsia disasters unfolded. Stewart has covered the conflict in Syria for LADbible, interviewing a doctor on the front line, and has contributed to the hugely successful UOKM8 campaign.

@stewartperrie