Prime Minister Scott Morrison has outlined Australia’s path out of Coronavirus restrictions after a meeting of National Cabinet today.
The States will choose when to roll out easing of restrictions but general guidelines have been agreed to today.
“Today we have put Australia in a position to go forward,” Mr Morrison said.
A three-step plan has been developed.
The PM says he expects State Premiers to make announcements today or in the coming days.
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— Nine News Sydney (@9NewsSyd) May 8, 2020
The first step will see gathering limits lifted to 10 people in public while community playgrounds and swimming pools will re-open. Small cafes and restaurants will also be able to open, while limits at funerals will be lifted to 30 and 10 at weddings. Five people will be allowed to visit your home.
Step two will see gatherings of 20 people allowed and cinemas, galleries and more retail re-open. Gyms will also be able to re-open, with limits in place. Community sport and beauty therapists will also be able to re-open.
Step three would see gatherings of 100 people allowed and pubs, clubs and gaming venues likely re-open. Food courts would re-open and interstate travel would be allowed.
PM says Treasury estimates 850,000 jobs will be restored as restrictions ease. By July hopefully but there are “no guarantees” @7NewsAustralia
— Olivia Leeming (@olivialeeming) May 8, 2020
Cross-Tasman and Pacific Island travel will be considered in step three, but there is no indication of when full international travel will return.
It is hoped all three steps will be implemented by July.
Mr Morrison warned there would be more COVID-19 cases as restrictions were eased, but is confident Australia’s health system can handle any rise.
Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy urges everyone to still abide by hygiene rules and 1.5m distancing rule. Says he is concerned that if those aren't followed "we could lose the battle we have won so far." #COVID19 @politicsabc
— Stephanie Borys (@StephieBorys) May 8, 2020
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
