Thought I'd make a new thread for this so it was clear and obvious...
If you get an appointment at the Sydney Consulate approved for expedited processing, make sure you take a face mask. It doesn't state it on the website anywhere (actually I did spot it somewhere but it's not in your face) but there is a sign on the door at the entry. At this stage until further notice they are requiring ANYBODY attending the Consulate to wear one. Everyone in security and NOT behind a secure screen is wearing one at the consulate. They will not provide you with one at the consulate. You'll arrive, be directed downstairs to wash your hands, then sanitize your hands before you put your phone and headphones and sunglasses in a secure pouch, then after you've done that too. Then you'll have to sanitize your hands once you go up the elevator to level 59 to the actual consulate itself before entering the big heavy door.
There is an IGA (local supermarket) in the building who sells 10 packs for $15, BUT whether they have them in stock when you are there who knows... Someone who was there with me had to go down and buy some. Thankfully they had stock on the day.
Bring your mask. They will NOT let you in without it.
This is not an opinion, or something you want to argue with any of the Consulate Officers with even if you don't believe you need one. I do not know if they make any medical exemptions... I suspect not...but if you do have a valid medical exemption from having to wear a mask I would still take a mask with you AND I would have the paperwork with you showing your exemption.
Take your mask with you. Wear it. Get your visa. Happy days.
Much love!