A year after the country was put into lockdown amid the pandemic, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced that a raft of COVID-19 restrictions would be repealed on Monday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Beginning 12.01am on Monday, March 29, there will be no restrictions on singing or dancing, no cap on visitors to the home and the use of a mask, including on public transport, will move from 'mandatory' to 'strongly recommended'.
Ms Berejiklian said the easing of restrictions is a significant step forward as NSW continues its COVID-19 recovery.
"With no community transmission and our quarantine and frontline workers now receiving their second vaccinations, the timing is right to further ease restrictions across the state," Ms Berejiklian said.
"As we do this, it is important we don't let our guard down and continue to check in at venues, keep our social distance and get tested if we have even the mildest of symptoms."
From Monday there will be:
- No caps on weddings and funerals
- No restrictions on singing including in places of worship
- No restriction on dancing including at weddings and in pubs and nightclubs
- No cap on visitors in the home (if there are more than 100 people there must be a COVID-19 Safety plan and electronic recording of visitor details)
In addition:
- 200 people are allowed for personal outdoor public gatherings
- All venues to move to the one person per 2sqm rule (venues will be allowed at least 25 people before the 2sqm rule applies)
- 100 per cent seated capacity at entertainment venues including stadiums and theatres
Businesses and other organisations must continue to ensure they keep accurate records of all attendances, including through QR Codes, to enable fast contact tracing in the event of any community transmission.
NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard said the further easing of restrictions was possible due to the support and sacrifices of the people of NSW.
"The initial focus of our vaccination program on frontline quarantine, border and healthcare workers has also given us greater confidence as it reduces the risk of COVID being introduced into the community from an overseas source," Mr Hazzard said.
Dr Kerry Chant, NSW Health's chief health officer, said it is critical everyone continues to practice COVID-safe behaviours, including using QR codes, staying home if unwell and getting tested.
"I also urge everyone to get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible and able to do so. It will not only protect you, your family and loved ones, but will keep the whole community safe," Dr Chant said.
Related Reading
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.portstephensexaminer.com.au
- Follow us on Instagram @psexaminer
- Follow us on Twitter @PortExaminer
