Restrictions to be lifted in Northern Territory as COVID-19...

Restrictions to be lifted in Northern Territory as COVID-19 cases drop

By Kathleen Gazzola • Chief of Staff and Political Journalist
9:07am Apr 30, 2020




Coronavirus: Northern Territory reveal plans to lift restrictions
NT Chief Minister, Michael Gunner, Will today release a "first in the nation" plan outlining when and how COVID-19 restrictions in the Northern Territory will be lifted and how the "new normal way of life" will begin.
The plan will include a timeline for businesses with dates and details for when more regular operations can restart.
It is understood most restaurants, bars and pubs will be able to open to some extent by June, but some may be able to sooner.

NT Chief Minister, Michael Gunner, Will today release a "first in the nation" plan outlining when and how COVID-19 restrictions in the Northern Territory will be lifted. (AAP)

But the gradual easing of restrictions will not be a return to normal, with businesses expected to have specific conditions for being open, such as limits on the number of people inside a venue, physical distancing and cleaning protocols.
Mr Gunner will also announce that children's playgrounds, water parks and swimming pools will be able to reopen from noon tomorrow.
Physical distancing and hygiene rules will continue to apply.
This is on top of NT-run parks and reserves already planning to open tomorrow, while elective surgeries have already recommenced.
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The plan to wind back restrictions comes as the NT only has three active cases of COVID-19 left, with 25 people already recovering from the deadly virus.

There are now just three active cases of COVID-19 in NT. (9News)
Once the last person has recovered, a 28-day countdown will begin and if no new cases are declared during that time, the Northern Territory could be coronavirus-free.
Mr Gunner has already briefed the Prime Minister of the plan and will attend National Cabinet today to explain it to other state and territory leaders.
He will reveal the full plan to the public around lunchtime today.