The Northern Territory Government has announced it will allow pubs to reopen in two weeks time.
A three-step road map has been created to take the NT to the "new normal".
Chief Minister Michael Gunner said: "Because we are the safest place in Australia, we can do this before anywhere else in Australia.
"Because being the safest in the nation means being the first in the nation to get back on track. Back to business, back to work, back to enjoying the great Territory lifestyle."
There have been no new cases of COVID-19 detected in the NT for more than three weeks and there are just three active coronavirus cases remaining out of a total of 28 confirmed cases to date.
On Friday, May 15, stage-two restrictions are expected to be eased, meaning people can visit licensed venues for a maximum of two hours.
Territorians will be allowed to operate and attend bars, pubs, sports or RSL clubs (alcohol allowed with the consumption of food). However, gaming activities will not be permitted and strict social distancing rules will still apply.
Gunner said: “I’m not asking you to walk around with a tape measure.
“I am asking you to use your head, use that Territory common sense, and keep your distance.”
Venues will be required to complete a simple COVID-19 safety plan checklist to ensure they are operating within physically distancing and hygiene guidelines, which will be available from May 5.
Stage three is anticipated to commence on June 5, 2020, allowing the operation of all licenced gaming activities including a TAB.
People will also be allowed to attend a bar without food being consumed and the two-hour time limit will be lifted.
However, NT’s borders will remain shut indefinitely.
SA & WA consider reopening pubs by end of May
Pictured main: Hotel Darwin
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