From 12 noon on Friday 3 July 2020, Stage 3 Restrictions will become operative.  The lifting of restrictions to Stage 3 will allow many more businesses to reopen and operate.

The 4 square metre rule (1 person per 4 square metres) continues to apply generally.  Office-based workers can return to work provided the 4 square metre rule is complied with.  However, businesses with an area of less than 200 square metres can operate with 1 person per 2+ square metres (with a maximum of 50 people).

The opening of concert venues, theatres and auditoriums can occur with up to 50% capacity or 1 person per 4 square metres (whichever is greater).

Providing the following businesses have a COVID Safe Plan in place, doors will open on Friday for:

• casinos, gaming and gambling venues (including electronic gaming machines);
• non-therapeutic massage;
• saunas and bathhouses;
• nightclubs; and
• food courts.

Wedding and funeral restrictions will also be lifted allowing 100 people to attend on the requirement contact details of all attendances are kept for a minimum of 56 days.

Sports, recreations and fitness organisations will also be able to open on the condition they are following a COVID Safe industry plan.

Aitken Legal recommends businesses continue to check the status of restrictions and industry specific COVID Plans applying to their business and make all the necessary adjustments to their COVID Safe Plans and business operations.