Hospitality moves to 1 person per 2sqm & new regional jobs program
Very welcome news today for our state’s hospitality sector, with the density restrictions eased for hospitality venues following the Transition Committee meeting.
Effective immediately, hospitality venues will move to a 1 person per 2 square metre density rule – for indoors (as well as outdoors, as was previously in place). Seated consumption indoors will be retained.
The Committee advised that restrictions will continue being looked at, with a further easing expected on 14 December – which will likely take us back to where we were, prior to the Parafield cluster, on 15 November.
The Police Commissioner Grant Stevens said the easing of the density requirement for hospitality venues was a “risk factor” but one that could be made thanks to the “game-changing” introduction of the QR code system, COVID SAfe Check-In, and the progress made on the cluster.
It was also made clear that the Commissioner recognised the significant economic and social impacts that the density restrictions were having on our state’s hospitality sector – particularly in the traditionally busy lead-up to Christmas – and for this reason, it was important they be eased now.
I know this will come as immediate relief to many businesses across the state, and it is pleasing that it was not delayed, and it could happen in time for this weekend.
I also understand that many businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector are struggling to find staff for the coming summer. A new $4.45 million package has been launched today to help fill vacancies and boost employment in key areas in regional SA over the next 6-12 months including this crucial time leading up to Christmas. It includes incentives of up to $2,000 for students moving to regions to take up regional jobs. I’d urge you to find out more about the Regional Jobs and Incentive Program here.
With the borders to Victoria reopened this week, the SATC is continuing our marketing efforts in SA’s largest tourism market (as well as states like NSW and the NT) to help drive visitors to our state and into your businesses. As announced this week, we can also look forward to the second round of Great State Vouchers – open to all Australians this time – injecting millions into our visitor economy, as the overnight stays it creates across our state mean more time and money spent in cafes, restaurants and bars, and on tours and experiences.
Enjoy the weekend and the increased patronage today’s news brings, and I will continue to keep you updated.
Rodney Harrex
Chief Executive