Queensland’s Easing COVID-19 Restrictions Explained

News

17 May

It has been a long eight weeks of self-isolation, however the light at the end of the tunnel is finally in sight, as coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions have begun to ease in Queensland. So, what has changed? What are you now allowed to do, and what remains strictly off limits?

This weekend, or as of 11:59pm on Friday, May 15, specifically, Queensland entered Stage 1, the first of three stages in the Queensland’s Government two-month-long plan to get all Queenslanders safely back to normal everyday life as soon as possible.

One of the most notable changes to come from the easing of restrictions this weekend is the opening of restaurants, cafes, pubs, clubs and RSLs to customers wishing to dine-in, while bars, food courts and casinos remain closed. Though, before you make a beeline to your favourite restaurant, you should know there are a number of conditions to dining out safely.

The main one is that only a maximum of ten people are allowed in a venue at any one time. This means making a reservation ahead of time is essential. Plus, social distancing and superior hygiene practices must be followed at all times.

Notably, a number of eateries around Brisbane have elected not to reopen or continue to solely focus on their current takeaway operation as for many such restrictions means opening fully is simply not a financially viable option. It is therefore important to check beforehand with the establishment about what they have decided to do.

Though you may find many Brisbane eateries remain shut to diners at the moment, you can expect far more to open on Saturday, June 12 when restrictions ease further and Queensland moves into Stage 2. As then up to 20 patrons will be allowed at a time, with an option for more with an approved COVID SAFE Plan.

Better yet, all going well, from Saturday, July 10 Queensland venues will be allowed to accommodate up to 100 people. So, sit tight, be patient and in no time you’ll be back once again eating out with friends and family at some of your favourite Brisbane eateries.

For everything else you can do under the new restrictions (beyond eating out) consult the list below.

Gatherings of up to 10 people:

Outdoor, Non-Contact Activity
Personal Training
Indoor and Outdoor Pools
Public Spaces and Lagoons
Parks, Playgrounds, Skate Parks and Outdoor Gyms
Libraries
Weddings
Hiking and other recreational activities in national and state parks
Places of Worship and Religious Ceremonies
Beauty Therapy and Nail Salons
Open Homes and Auctions
Funerals (max. 20 indoors or 30 outdoors)

Plus, a maximum of five visitors are allowed at your private home at any one time, however, visitors cannot stay overnight, and you can now travel up to 150km for the purpose of recreational travel, strictly for day trips only within Queensland.

Note: For those living in the Outback different restrictions apply to dining in and recreational travel.

Written by Jarred Reinke

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