COVID-19 Update: Restrictions Ease July 1

THE New South Wales Government announced that COVID-19 restrictions will further ease on July 1, with strict social distancing rules remaining in place.

There will be no upper limit to people allowed inside indoor venues, including function centres, as long as businesses continue to obey the 4metre square social distancing rule.

Social distancing restrictions including 20 guests inside the home and 20 for outside gatherings will remain the same however, outdoor cultural and sporting events with a maximum 40,000 person capacity will be allowed to use up to 25 percent of that capacity.

Restrictions for funerals will be completed eased with the continued maintenance of the 4meter square rule and music festivals and nightclubs which are still considered high-risk transmission areas, will remain closed in July.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said New South Wales is able to further ease restrictions due to the limited community transmission and advised the community to continue using COVID-19 safe practises.

“The community has worked incredibly hard over the past few months which has allowed us to be where we are today,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“However, we can’t let our guard down,” she said.

“People need to come forward for testing with the mildest of symptoms and practise good hand hygiene and social distancing,” she said.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the government will also “be considering solutions for smaller venues, particularly in regional New South Wales, where the 4metre square rule is not practical for small businesses”.

“The July 1 measures will allow vital community hubs in the regions to open, such as showgrounds, providing a big boost for communities many of which are still recovering from the devastating impacts of drought and the bushfires,” Mr Barilaro said.

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello said the government would continue to help businesses and industries open safely through the recently launched COVID Safe Check online tool.

“It helps businesses continue to build their hygiene and compliance plans by checking and testing their safety plans,” Mr Dominello said.

“More than 30,000 businesses have already downloaded a COVID Safety Plan template,” he said.