Up to 50 people will be able to gather at NSW pubs from next month following the announcement of a further easing of restrictions by the state government.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the move was about safely bringing back thousands of jobs.

“This decision has been made with expert health advice and both businesses and patrons will be subject to strict rules and guidelines,” she said.

“All customers must be seated and no bookings of more than 10 allowed, in addition to many other conditions which must be met.”

At a glance: 

• The NSW Government has announced a further easing of COVID-19 restrictions for NSW pubs, with 50 people allowed to gather at a venue from June 1.
• Patrons will be required to observe the one person per four square metre rule, as well as strict social distancing guidelines.
• The government said it had worked extensively with AHA and ClubsNSW in determining when to ease the restrictions.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello are heading up the government’s roadmap for reopening the economy and have worked extensively with both the AHA and ClubsNSW.

“This is a game-changer right now, 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,” Mr Barilaro said.

“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.”

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the government was moving to swiftly and safely get businesses back in business and people back to work.

“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," Mr Perrottet said.

"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.”

Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello, who is responsible for liquor and gaming regulation, said the NSW Government had liaised exhaustively with both AHA and ClubsNSW to deliver this plan.  

“This has been really considered and thought out to make sure we have the best regulatory settings in place,” he said.

All venues must ensure social distancing and will need to develop a COVID Safety Plan consistent with NSW Health guidelines.

The AHA and ClubsNSW have confirmed their members will comply with all conditions stipulated by NSW Health.

Patrons have been advised to check with the venue before attending to ensure they will be able to attend.

A 'commonsense outcome'

Accommodation Australia CEO Dean Long said the announcement recognised the importance of protecting the NSW economy and the 26,000 directly employed in the NSW accommodation industry.

“The accommodation sector is currently experiencing revenue declines in the order of 85%, with many of our restaurants closed due to government restrictions,” he said.

“The easing of restrictions is a commonsense outcome that is vital to enhancing the destination experience and assists in supporting employment.

"However, opening up travel within NSW needs to be supported by the opening, not only of restaurants and cafes, but a range of unique destination activities.”

Mr Long said he looked forward to working with the government on the next stage of recovery.

“Intrastate travel represents 70 per cent of all visitor nights in regional NSW hotels," he said. 

"The announcement today in conjunction with the encouragement of intrastate travel will provide the additional stimulus required for regional accommodation providers to build demand.”

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Thanks to the NT for staying the XXXX at home