Released 08/07/2020
Following the introduction of border restrictions for people entering the ACT from Victoria and the metropolitan Melbourne lock-down, the health advice remains that the ACT can proceed with some minor changes outlined in stage three of the ACT’s Easing of Restrictions roadmap from midday on Friday 10 July.
The unfolding situation in Victoria is a significant concern, and that’s why the ACT is taking a cautious approach with further easing of restrictions. The ACT will not be implementing a 1 person per 2 square metres rule at this time given the heightened COVID-19 risk.
The ACT Government has, throughout this pandemic, followed the advice from our public health experts. These are challenging circumstances, and while the recovery of our local economy is critically important, now is not the time to be putting all the hard work of the Canberra community at risk by moving too quickly.
ACT will introduce new capacity limits to provide some flexibility for smaller venues. Venues will be able to cater for 25 patrons, or 1 person per four square metres of usable space (whichever is greater). This should be considered as the new guidance across all industries in the ACT.
| Useable Space | Maximum number of people across the venue |
|---|---|
| 50 sqm | 25 |
| 75 sqm | 25 |
| 100 sqm | 25 |
| 120 sqm | 30 |
| 200 sqm | 50 |
As previously outlined, the ACT will move to a 25% capacity at sporting and entertainment venues in the ACT following a successful trial of spectators at GIO Stadium last weekend. Large events (indoor or outdoor) which are not ticketed or seated will remain closed.
Gyms that operate on a 24 hour basis will be able to have a maximum of 25 people in the facility at any one time when facilities are unstaffed.
Contact community sports will be able to start competitions from midday on Friday. Indoor community sporting venues with tiered seating should have no more than 25 per cent capacity for spectators. Outdoor community sporting events should be limited to 250 spectators.
Canberra Casino, gaming and gambling venues will be able to reopen, with increased cleaning of high touch areas.
Full details on the Stage 3 restrictions are available from the COVID-19 website.
This is a cautious step in light of the situation in Victoria. The Government will closely monitor the impact of these changes, as well as the effectiveness of the various Victorian restrictions, before considering any future easing of local restrictions.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases