South Australia is desperately trying to keep a lid on the growing COVID-19 outbreak in Adelaide, introducing a number of tough new restrictions.
At last count, the Parafield cluster has increased to 22 direct cases and a further seven suspected cases.
South Australia’s Premier had already announced on Monday that all events with an approved COVID Management Plan would be placed on hold or cancelled for the next two weeks.
The COVID-19 outbreak also prompted other states and territories to tighten up their border restrictions for South Australian travellers in recent days, with Western Australia and Tasmania doubling down since their initial restrictions were announced.
However, Steven Marshall today announced significant COVID-19 restrictions for six days to provide a “circuit breaker” and help stop a potential second wave.
Marshall said the wide-ranging restrictions aim to “significantly reduce mobility” and take swift and decisive action to “stamp out” this virus in order to protect South Australia’s economy.
From midnight tonight, South Australians will be restricted from leaving their homes, with only one person per household able to leave once per day, for specific purposes. A further eight days of lighter restrictions will follow.
Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés (including takeaway food) will be closed for the next six days, and weddings and funerals will be banned.
Regional travel is not approved in South Australia, so those currently in regions are advised to consider where they wish to stay for the next six days and make their way there.
Holiday homes across the state will not be available for lease or rental during the six-day period.
In addition, masks will be required in all areas outside of the home from midnight tonight.
It was only last month that Adelaide successfully hosted its largest business event since the start of the global pandemic.
Held at the Adelaide Convention Centre, the Connect SA conference’s prime objective was to give the business event sector confidence that such events can be held now and successfully.
Featured image source: iStock/bgblue
