After more than 100 days of restrictions, NSW has taken its first steps back to normal life with a range of lockdown restrictions easing for fully vaccinated people.
Celebrating the beginning of the State’s reopening, Premier, Dominic Perrottet said businesses could now open to customers, with patrons required to demonstrate that they had been double-vaccinated against COVID-19 and were willing to comply with physical-distancing requirements.
“There is a sense of optimism out there,” Mr Perrottet said.
“As we re-open after more than 100 days, we ask everyone to treat staff with kindness and respect when they ask you to check-in or see your vaccination certificate,” he said.
“Following these simple measures will help keep us all safe and keep us moving forward out of the pandemic.”
Mr Perrottet said the reopening milestone was only possible thanks to the efforts of so many people embracing the public health messages.
“The people of NSW have earned this moment setting a cracking pace in getting the jab to protect our communities and businesses who have had such a tough time these past few months,” he said.
“Today is just a taste of the freedoms to come with the State on track to pass the 80 per cent double vaccination mark within weeks and, if we keep on going, we’ll ensure lockdowns become a thing of the past,” he said.
Chief Executive of Business NSW, Daniel Hunter said the eased restrictions were an opportunity for people to show their support and celebrate local businesses getting back to business.
“When we talk about businesses reopening, it’s important that we remember that this is about people, their livelihoods and their mental wellbeing,” Mr Hunter said.
“The best way to get people employed again and for existing staff to increase their shifts is to ensure local businesses have a great supply of customers – so the challenge is absolutely out there for people to visit their favourite café or restaurant, go back to the hairdresser, enjoy a meal at the local pub and support business owners and their employees,” he said.
Further information on current COVID-19 rules and restrictions can be accessed at this PS News link.
