Back to business and back on the path to recovery
Terrific news today that South Australia will come out of our COVID-19 lockdown early.
Despite three new cases being confirmed today, the State Government has announced that some restrictions will ease immediately, and that the majority will be wound back as of midnight tomorrow.
It is great news for the tourism, hospitality and events sector. It means we can start to get back to business, back on the path of recovery, and plan ahead for a broader relaxation later this month.
It is no doubt frustrating for South Australians and for so many businesses impacted by restrictions that the lockdown was based on false information provided to contact tracers – however, I think it’s important our sights stay set on the path forward and in getting our sector back on track.
Key points from Premier Marshall’s press conference today that relate to our tourism, hospitality and events sector are provided below. As always, for the full list, please refer to the State Government’s COVID information website at covid-19.sa.gov.au.
Effective at 12.01 Sunday 22 November 2020 (midnight Saturday):
- Business premises move to density of 1 person per 4 square metres
- Hotels and licensed venues capped at 100 people per venue
- Seated consumption required at all venues, both indoors and outdoors
- Weddings capped at 150 people (no dancing)
- Funerals capped at 50 people
- Regional travel will be permitted (see detail below).
Police Commissioner Grant Stevens clarified regional travel further, stating:
“As of midnight Saturday, you will be able to travel to the regions. We would ask people to consider the necessity for their travel. If you still have commitments that you have already made or you have reasons that you have to travel to visit family members, there are no restrictions on travel after midnight but we still want to keep a lid on the level of discretionary movement within the community.”
In regards to borders, SAPOL will continue to review all Directions with the aim to open the borders to Victoria on 1 December as originally planned, and further open up our state by reducing restrictions.
It may be important to note, that effective immediately, exercise outdoors in household groups is permitted. Masks are not mandatory but are encouraged.
I can imagine there are a lot of questions from the tourism industry. I will continue to work with SA Health and the State Government to provide the best advice to you as it comes to hand.
You can also contact the SA COVID-19 information line on 1800 253 787 with any questions regarding your business operations and COVID restrictions. Our advice is that COVID Safe plans issued earlier this week still apply.
As we all work to stay vigilant while we get back up and running, it’s important to know that there is financial support available if you are required to self-isolate due to a public health direction or a positive COVID test, and do not have access to paid leave or other income support. Refer to information about pandemic leave assistance here.
Rodney Harrex
Chief Executive