Images of Sydney’s Bondi Beach packed with tourists have left many fuming as the government’s tough new social distancing regulations come into force.

A number of photos shared to Twitter show the popular tourist spot, which sees an average of 2.6 million visitors per annum, filled with beach-goers.

On Friday, the government introduced drastic new restrictions non-essential indoor gatherings in an effort to slow the spread of coronavirus.

A worker uses a water-blaster to clean the ground in front of the Sydney Opera House, following an outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19), in Sydney, Australia, on March 19, 2020. Credit: Anadolu Agency / Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

In addition to the existing limit of no more than 100 people in an indoor space, Morrison announced there should be no more than one person per four square metres.

This is on top of existing advice to keep 1.5m of ‘social distance’ where possible, in any situation.

Despite the stern instructions, thousands flocked to Bondi on Friday.

Photos, shared to Twitter, show the popular tourist spot filled with beach-goers. Credit: Twitter/hylchil

Infuriated Australians have taken to social media to slam those who decided to crowd the popular beach, saying it is irresponsible in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Comedian Julia Zemiro pleaded for Australians to take the prime minister’s warnings seriously.

“If you’re on Bondi Beach just maybe.... think about others, yourselves, and go back inside,” she wrote.

“You will be on the beach again. One day. Soon. But just for now... give everyone a fighting chance.”

Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy said people should be practising social distancing whenever possible by keeping 1.5 metres apart from each other.

“That’s why we have guidelines for people in gatherings of less than 100,” Murphy said.

“There’s no point having a gathering of 20 people if it’s in a tiny room and you’re all together.”

‘Role to play’

Morrison acknowledged the new guidelines would mean a lot of change for venues and people.

“Every Australian has a role to play to slow this virus,” Morrison said.

“Don’t wait to see a sign, don’t wait for any other specific instruction.”

More on 7NEWS.com.au

There have now been 756 confirmed cases in Australia, with the government pleading for people to take measures to prevent a catastrophic overloading of our health system.

Seven people have now died in the country from the virus, the latest an 81-year-old NSW woman.

Globally, there are about 246,000 cases and have been over 10,000 deaths.

In the video below: Australia closes its borders