NSW, Vic to ease COVID-related restrictions

The government said the following changes will apply:

• No cap on weddings and funerals;
• No restrictions on singing, including in places of worship;
• No restrictions 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);
• 200 people allowed for personal outdoor public gatherings;
• All venues to move to the one person per two square metre rule (venues will be allowed at least 25 people before the two square metre rule will apply);
• 100 per cent seated capacity at entertainment venues, including stadiums and theatres; and
• mask use, including on public transport, will move from “mandatory” to “strongly recommended”.  

However, the government has advised that businesses and other organisations must continue to ensure that they keep accurate records of all attendances, including through QR codes, to enable quick contact tracing in the event of any community transmission.

Commenting on the loosening of the restrictions, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said it is a “significant step forward” as the state has continued on its COVID-19 recovery path.

“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.”

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the latest round of easing of restrictions would help support businesses and jobs in NSW.

“Today we take another big stride in the right direction, easing restrictions is important in helping businesses return to normal – it’s like a jab of confidence for the economy,” Mr Perrottet said.

NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said that it is “critical” that everyone continues to practice COVID-safe behaviours, including using QR codes and staying home if unwell, and getting tested for the coronavirus.

“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.

Victoria to ease restrictions from 26 March

The Victorian government also relaxed its COVID-19-related restrictions, announcing that from 6pm on Friday, 26 March, masks will no longer be required in retail settings in the state.

However, Victorian residents will still need to carry one with them at all times and wear it on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis and in sensitive settings such as aged care facilities and hospitals, the state government said.

Victorians will also be able to host up to 100 people in their home per day, and 200 people in outdoor gatherings in public places.

Density limits in venues still operating under more restrictive settings like casinos, karaoke venues and nightclubs will move from one person per four square metres to one person per two square metres, which the government said is in line with pubs, restaurants and cafes.

In addition, the 75 per cent cap on private and public offices workers will also be removed, with workplaces no longer required to permit workers to work from home.

However, workplaces still must ensure that people can work from the office in a COVID-safe manner, with a limit of one person per two square metres, the Victorian government said.

Commenting on the loosening of the restrictions, Victorian acting Premier James Merlino said: “We know the risk is far from over, but thanks to the incredible work of all Victorians, we’re continuing to open up and see the Victoria we all love return to life again.

“More Victorians back at work means more people supporting their local cafes, restaurants and live music venues – boosting the economy where it’s needed most.”      

Minister for Health Martin Foley also spoke about the changes, stating: “These changes are another positive step in Victoria’s social and economic recovery but also a reminder that now is not the time to be complacent – we must continue to keep each other safe, so we can stay open.”

[Related: Melbourne businesses forced to close, banks to remain open]