With the government’s announcement of a partial shut down of non-essential services, what does this mean for Sydney’s hospitality venues?
The rolling updates related to the COVID-19 outbreak doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. In fact, just last night Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison held a press conference to announce further changes to non-essential services across NSW and beyond.
These new measures are being introduced off the back of a need to enforce social distancing measures. The message to stay home and avoid social gatherings is yet to be heard by many Sydneysiders, with hundreds flocking to Bondi Beach over the weekend despite government and health experts urging Australians to avoid large crowds and gatherings.
So, what are the most recent changes to be announced by the government? And what do these changes mean for your favourite bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants across Sydney? Find out more below.
Pubs & Clubs
From midday, today (March 23rd) all registered and licensed clubs, licensed premises in hotels and pubs, entertainment venues and cinemas, casinos and nightclubs will close.
Restaurants & Cafes
From midday, today (March 23rd), all restaurants and cafes across NSW will need to shift to takeaway only, with no dine-in option available.
Indoor Sporting Venues
From midday, today (March 23rd), all gyms and indoor sporting venues will close, along with places of worship.
Schools
All schools in NSW will remain open to ensure parents who need to still go to work have a place to send their kids. However, in a press conference this morning NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian urged parents to keep their kids at home if they are able to do so (with teaching to move online).
What about bottle shops and supermarkets?
In some good news, all bottle shops and supermarkets will remain open as usual. However, there may be changes or reductions to opening hours, so make sure to check online before heading out to check the hours for your local store.