More restrictions have eased across NSW today as we move towards reopening the economy in a COVID-safe way, with people urged to maintain physical distancing.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said it is vital both businesses and patrons follow health and safety guidelines, to ensure we keep people in jobs and businesses in business.

“We need to accept life will be different until we have an effective treatment or a vaccine,” Mr Hazzard said.

“Everyone should maintain physical distancing and practise good hygiene, and if even the mildest symptoms present such as a sore throat or runny nose, get yourself tested.

“A simple tip advocated by health experts is to act as if you are infectious which will help you think twice about how you interact around others, as more restrictions are eased.”

From today, 1 June, the following will be allowed:

  • Pubs, clubs, casinos, cafes and restaurants can have up to 50 customers per separate seated food and drink area;
  • Travel to regional NSW for a holiday;
  • Up to 50 people can attend places of worship and attend a funeral;
  • Up to 20 guests can attend weddings;
  • Zoos, aquariums and reptile parks are allowed to open;
  • Beauty, nail, tanning and waxing salon operators can begin treatments;
  • Camping grounds and caravan parks can open; and
  • Museums, galleries and libraries are allowed to open.

All businesses reopening must comply with the one person per four square metre rule. There is also provision for business to have COVIDSafe plans in place.

The rules on gathering remain the same – five visitors to a home, and 10 people outside.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said today that she would make an announcement about the reopening of gyms, dance studios and other fitness centres later this week.

Meanwhile local businesses in regional communities are preparing for a much needed economic boost as they prepare to open their doors to holidaymakers as the NSW Government winds back travel restrictions in regional NSW from today.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said while regional communities were looking forward to reigniting their tourism industries, it was essential that people escaping to the regions follow COVID-safe advice and do their homework on local motels, retailers, restaurants and experience providers before hitting the road.

“The people of NSW are eager to enjoy a well earned break and we are welcoming visitors back to the regions with open arms,” Mr Barilaro said.

“I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy all regional NSW has to offer but please be patient with businesses as they make provisions to support more visitors while remaining safe. Remember to call ahead to your accommodation and follow COVID measures and social distancing rules.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said while people can travel from today, holidaymakers should expect many more cars on the roads towards the end of the week as greater numbers head north, south and west in the lead up to the June long weekend.

“We’re expecting the roads to be busy with people eager to get out and about but for many motorists it’s been a long time since they have travelled long distances or driven for more than essential travel,” Mr Toole said.

“We’re encouraging travellers to stagger their trips, travel off peak and avoid the usual pinch points for those travelling north on the Pacific Highway, escaping for a weekend down the South Coast or heading over the mountains to the Central West.”

Mr Toole said capacity on regional rail and coach services had been increased for the long weekend with bookings set up to accommodate for physical distancing guidelines.

“We are doing everything we practically can to make sure people have safe public transport options to get out of town and experience all the bush has to offer,” Mr Toole said.

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