Decoding the New Coronavirus Restrictions and Their Impact
We have to cooperate to prevent the spread of the virus
The coronavirus pandemic is forcing people in different countries to limit their activities and stay at home. Australia seems to have joined the list as Scott Morrison, the Australian Prime Minister recently announced new coronavirus restrictions. Here’s how it will impact an average Aussie person.
Time for Closure
To prepare for coronavirus and avoid spreading it to masses, non-essential services like pubs, cinemas, religious gatherings, places of worship, gyms, clubs, casinos, and indoor sporting clubs among others will be closed. Cafes and restaurants will offer only home deliveries or takeout.
Not a Total Closure
Though the Aussie government seems to try hard to flatten the curve, it can’t shut everything. So, the places where the coronavirus restrictions won’t be applicable for now are hairdressers, dentists, retail stores, doctor surgeries, shopping centres, outdoor sporting facilities and post offices among others.
The School Dilemma
The federal government has advised the schools to remain open, but NSW and Victorian governments disagree and have asked parents to keep kids at home.
Shutting Down the Borders
As per the new coronavirus restrictions, only Australian citizens, the permanent residents and the immediate family members of those people can enter the country. The reason for this is simple. Around 80% of Australians came in contact with the virus when they were in touch with someone who has returned from another country. The Island state of Tasmania has asked anyone entering the state to remain in quarantine for 14 days. Airlines like Qantas and Virgin Australia have grounded international flights. But still, the non-Australians are being ferried home.
Other Bans
Non-essential indoor gatherings of over 100 people are banned as per new coronavirus restrictions.
Australians have been advised not to travel overseas.
Kids should go to school if they are healthy so that parents can focus on work.
The visits to senior care homes and other care facilities have been restricted to 2 people per visit.
New Powers
To enforce the new coronavirus restrictions, those in authority can fine and jail people who refuse to follow the orders. These powers are granted by state and federal governments.
The Murky Future
ScoMo also said that if these coronavirus restrictions don’t get the results, more restrictions could be imposed. This could go on for as long as 6 months as there is no word on whether the disease can come back after you have recovered from its previous attack.
