The health, safety and wellbeing of Tasmanians is our number one priority as we face the challenges presented to us by COVID-19.
From today, the first stage of the Government’s Roadmap to Recovery has commenced.
Restaurants and cafes have opened for seated table service for up to 10 patrons, with delivery and takeaway services able to continue.
Workplaces are also encouraged to have COVID-safe plans in place, aligned to minimum standards to keep customers and staff safe from coronavirus.
These plans are being informed by Public Health and Worksafe Tasmania.
We are engaging with industries, organisations and businesses to assist them in developing guidelines on how workplaces can meet these standards.
Our gradual easing of restrictions is being informed by Public Health advice, at a state and national level, and we are taking a glide path approach to help manage the risk of a second wave.
Guidelines for the hospitality sector have been created in consultation with the Tasmanian Hospitality Association, and are available at the https://coronavirus.tas.gov.au/ website.
Guidance on how businesses can meet the guidelines as well as checklists and templates can be found at the https://www.worksafe.tas.gov.au/ website.
For restaurants and dining rooms that can reopen in Stage 1, the general gathering rule is that there must not be more than 10 people in a single area. In any indoor or outdoor area, there must be enough space for four square metres per person.
However, single premise establishments with multiple dining rooms may operate up to 2 venues, each with no more than 10 people, utilising separate wait staff for each venue. There is no requirement for separate kitchens or toilets, however, appropriate cleaning must be undertaken.
I am deeply aware that hospitality businesses have felt the full force of the coronavirus impact, however a second wave of the virus caused by moving too quickly, too early, would be even more devastating to the industry.
I would like to again acknowledge and thank the very constructive role of the Tasmanian Hospitality Association (THA) and local businesses in continuing to work with Government as we ease restrictions and deliver our plan to rebuild Tasmania.
Businesses who need additional information or support to develop safety plans should contact Business Tasmania at the https://www.business.tas.gov.au/home website or phone the Hotline on 1800 440 0266.
More Media Releases from the Minister for Small Business, Hospitality and Events