I'm very pleased to confirm that the NSW Government will allow pubs, clubs, cafes and restaurants to have up to 50 customers from June 1.
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This decision has been made with expert health advice and both businesses and patrons will be subject to guidelines, including a one person per four square metre rule and strict social distancing.
This move is a game-changer. As we continue to deal with the aftermath of the devastating bushfires, continued drought and COVID-19, it's important for people to find a way to enjoy themselves and take a break from the daily pressures they are facing.
A morale boost and the additional economic stimulus provided by pubs and clubs is what our communities need and I look forward to enjoying a beer in the bush with locals very soon.
There are about 280,000 people employed in this sector of the economy and allowing venues to safely cater for more customers will provide another boost to business and jobs.
NSW is opening back up for business and as we ease restrictions everybody needs to follow the health and safety guidelines, to ensure we make it a success and can continue.This has been really considered and thought out to make sure we have the best regulatory settings in place.
All venues must ensure social distancing and will need to develop a COVID Safety Plan consistent with NSW Health guidelines.
We're getting creative
IT is fantastic to hear that 3886 kids from families in the Bathurst electorate have taken up the NSW Government's Creative Kids vouchers.
These $100 vouchers are helping school aged children and young people stay connected to creative learning activities during social distancing restrictions.
This is a difficult time for everyone and is putting financial stress on many families. This program is working to keep children engaged and active in creative, cultural and technology-based activities, while trying to ease some of that financial burden.
Creative Kids providers are also getting a helping hand to digitally adapt their work with grants of up to $5000, a digital toolkit to help them with their online delivery, extension of the use of Creative Kids vouchers for online programs and educational materials and an improved Service NSW website to make it easier for parents to find a provider.
Not everyone has an internet connection, so Creative Kids vouchers can now be used to cover the cost of more creative materials and equipment.
You can still apply for these provider grants but you need to meet a set of criteria.
To find out if you're eligible, go to https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/creative-kids.