The tougher new restrictions on pubs in New South Wales, which started today, will be widened, meaning the state’s bars, cafes and restaurants will be required to limit group bookings to 10 people.
The move comes as the NSW Government looks to limit any further community spread as much as possible and reducing the chances of mingling crowds in any venue.
“We absolutely need everybody seated when they are in a venue. No dancing, no singing, no mingling,” said NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian.
“These measures we are bringing in are to protect NSW. These measures will reduce the risk of community transmission getting out of control.”
The new restrictions will apply from 12.01am on Friday, 24 July.
The move comes after Wednesday’s announcement that restrictions would be further tightened for NSW pubs.
In light of a number of community transmissions, a number of changes were introduced, including:
- Group bookings and tables reduced to a maximum of 10 (down from 20)
- Maximum 300 patrons, regardless of venue size and space
- All patron contact details must be taken
- Designated COVIDSafe hygiene marshals inside venues
- Compulsory COVIDSafe registration through ServiceNSW
AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said the NSW Government had worked closely with industry to develop these new requirements which help keep the community safe.
“We all know how important it is for our venues to stay COVID-Safe – we are in constant contact with our members and will ensure they understand how vital it is they comply with these new measures.”
Any business found in breach of the public health orders will be held to account and could face a penalty of up to $55,000 and a further $27,500 penalty may apply for each day an offence continues. On the spot fines can also be issued.