If Australia’s COVID-19 curve continues to flatten, lockdown rules may be relaxed in a few weeks time to allow NSW pubs to reopen.
The Daily Telegraph reports NSW’s ministers are hoping some restrictions on bars, pubs and clubs could be wound back as early as May 1.
There's speculation that NSW pubs could reopen with strict social distancing guidelines in place.
The Daily Telegraph noted: "The plan has not been finalised and may still shift, with the Government wanting to monitor further updates on the virus’s spread amid increasing concerns about wanting to avoid a long-term economic depression."
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian noted: “I said yesterday that social distancing would be a part of our lives until there was a vaccine or a cure, and that’s absolutely the case.
“But I also want to stress that social distancing is different from restrictions.”
She added: “We know that the restrictions are having an effect. But it takes us a couple of weeks to get the data through and for the health experts to be able to advise us.
“So I don't want to raise expectations, but at the same time, there could be a chance, if the health experts deem it appropriate for us, to look at some relaxations.”
“If the health experts give us advice to say that there's an opportunity to relax any part of the existing restrictions, we will take that advice.”
Aussies urged to buy a pint to save their local pub
An initiative by CUB and the Australian Hotels Association, called For the Love of Your Local, is urging Aussies to place an order for a pint at their local pub to drink when it reopens.
CUB will match every purchase with a free pint, meaning people get two for one pints.
People buy a pint using PayPal to ensure venues get the money quickly and, when doors re-open, they’ll be emailed a voucher to exchange for two pints.
CUB has offered to donate up to $1 million worth of kegs to venues, but this could increase if required.
CUB CEO Peter Filipovic said: “This campaign is a win-win for pubs and clubs and for beer lovers.
“Some venues are facing the prospect of never opening their doors again if they don’t get cash flow. It is an unprecedented challenge, not even during the World Wars or the Depression did the pubs close.
“But we know Australians want pubs and clubs to keep their place at the heart of many local communities once this crisis is over. So if you love your local, or just want to help save the great Aussie tradition of going to the pub, buy a pint of beer in their hour of need.”
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