Politics

NSW Is Gearing Up To Lift Some Restrictions For Fully Vaxxed People Next Month

You could be back in the pub sooner than you think.

by Junkee  9 September 2021
gladys berejiklian press conference nsw restrictions easing

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People in NSW will most likely be able to head back to the pub next month, as the state takes its first steps in reopening after lockdown.

At today’s press conference it was revealed that stay at home orders will be lifted for fully vaccinated citizens once the state has hit the 70 percent double-dose target, which it’s currently expected to do so around October 18, if vaccinations continue at their current rate.

Strict rules will apply: staff at these businesses will have to be fully vaccinated, a four-metre square rule will be in place inside (two-metre square outside at hospitality venues), and seating while eating and drinking will once again be mandatory indoors.

Gyms will also be able to be open with the four-metre square rule in place, with classes operating with up to 20 people. Up to 50 people can attend weddings and funerals, and travel to regional NSW will be allowed. Up to five visitors will be allowed in homes — provided they are all vaccinated — and up to 20 people can gather outdoors together. Masks will remain mandatory for all indoor public venues.

The freedoms will be triggered the Monday after NSW has hit the 70 percent target.

The full rundown is below:

The state recorded 1405 cases of community transmission today, from over 156,000 tests. 202 people are currently in ICU — NSW Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant said a key feature is the predominance of people in ICU who are not vaccinated.

“I want to stress that we’re not out of the woods,” said NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian. “Living with COVID means you have a cautious and staged reopening once you get to those high rates of vaccination.”

She also gave a warning to the unvaccinated: “[The freedoms are] only for people who are vaccinated. You will not be able to participate in the freedoms of those who are vaccinated. You have been warned.”

She also stressed that, at any time, if there is an uptick in cases, NSW Health may advise to implement restrictions again. These restrictions will likely be in place to limit movement within those locations.

Parts of regional NSW, which are currently deemed low risk will also have lockdowns lifted from midnight, Saturday September 11.

Schools in Sydney are set to reopen on October 25.