Here's How COVID-19 Is Affecting Sydney's Hospitality and Arts Scenes

Here's where you can stay up to date on how coronavirus is impacting your city.
Concrete Playground
Published on March 21, 2020
Updated on May 22, 2020
  • News

    Pre-Departure Tests Will No Longer Be Required to Enter Australia From Overseas From April 17

    International holidays are about to get easier — anyone heading to Australia won't need to get tested for COVID-19 before hopping on a plane.

  • News

    The NSW Government's New $50 Accommodation Vouchers Have Started Being Rolled Out Across the State

    Every NSW resident aged over 18 will be able to nab one of the Stay NSW vouchers, which are being released by Local Government Area over a two-week period.

  • News

    NSW Is Ditching Hospitality Density Limits, Reopening Dance Floors and Relaxing Mask Rules

    With decreasing community transmission and hospital admission numbers, the NSW Government is loosening rules around heading out in two phases — starting on Friday, February 18.

  • News

    Australia Is Reopening Its International Borders to All Double-Vaccinated Visitors on February 21

    Almost two years since the border closed back in March 2020, all visa holders will once again be allowed to visit Australia.

  • News

    NSW's Mask Rules, Density Caps, and Singing and Dancing Bans Will Remain Until the End of February

    The state's current COVID-19 settings are sticking around for another month "to protect the community and our health system," Premier Dominic Perrottet advised.

  • News

    Queensland Is Ditching All Domestic Border Restrictions From January 15

    To get into the Sunshine State, you'll no longer need to show a border pass or provide proof of a rapid antigen test.

  • News

    NSW Has Extended the Ban on Dancing and Singing to Outdoor Music Festivals

    Building on the indoor ban introduced earlier in January, the expanded rule covers all attendees at both inside and outdoor music fests.

  • News

    Sydney's Public Transport Services Are Running on Weekend Timetables Due to Staff Shortages

    Only ferries and replacement buses for the L1 Dulwich Hill light rail line will stick to normal weekday timetables until further notice.

  • News

    NSW Is Banning Dancing and Singing in Hospitality Venues Again in Response to Rising Cases

    The returning 'Footloose'-style rules will apply at all hospitality venues from Saturday, January 8 until at least Thursday, January 27.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Are Once Again Required to Wear Face Masks in Indoor Settings

    With COVID-19 cases rising across the state, masks will be required again in all indoor spaces except homes — and density limits are back for indoor hospitality venues.

  • News

    The NSW Government's Two Extra $25 Dine & Discover Vouchers Are Being Rolled Out From Today

    If you've already registered, they'll start popping up automatically in the Service NSW app — and they're valid until the end of June.

  • News

    NSW Will Scrap Density Limits, Plus Masks and Check-Ins in Most Settings, by Mid-December

    When the state hits 95-percent double jabs, or Wednesday, December 15 rolls around — whichever comes first — a heap of COVID-19 rules will ease even further.

  • News

    Queensland Is Reopening to Vaxxed Visitors Nearly a Week Early After Hitting 70-Percent Double Jabs

    The Sunshine State might also hit its 80-percent double-vaccinated target early, which is when interstate visitors can enter Queensland without quarantining.

  • News

    Victoria Has Fully Opened Its Border to New South Wales

    Under Victoria's permit system, all of New South Wales is now classed as a green zone, allowing all NSW residents to head south without testing or quarantining.

  • News

    NSW Is Bringing Forward Its Next Stage of Relaxed Restrictions for Double-Vaxxed Folks to November 8

    Rules for double-jabbed NSW residents are easing almost a month earlier than planned — scrapping caps on at-home gatherings and allowing dance floors to reopen.

  • News

    Singapore Is Opening Up Quarantine-Free Travel to Vaccinated Australians on November 8

    A travel bubble between Australia and Singapore was first floated back in March, and it's finally becoming a reality.

  • News

    Qantas Is Bringing Forward International Flights to Singapore, Fiji, Johannesburg and Thailand

    The airline will start flying to Singapore in mid-November — and Australia could have a quarantine-free travel bubble in place with the southeast Asian city-state by then.

  • News

    Vaccinated Travellers Can Move Between NSW and Victoria Without Quarantining From November 1

    Victoria has already dropped its quarantine requirement for double-jabbed NSW travellers, and the reciprocal arrangement will kick in next month.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Giving Out $50 Vouchers to Use on Accommodation Across the State

    Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced that all adults across the state will receive a 'Stay & Rediscover' voucher to use on NSW staycations.

  • News

    Queensland Will Start Reopening Its Borders to Double-Vaccinated Visitors From Mid-November

    The announcement means that Queensland will be welcoming in travellers from elsewhere in Australia just as summer arrives.

  • News

    International Travel Will Be Back on the Cards for Vaccinated Australians From November 1

    On the same date, New South Wales will drop all quarantine requirements and caps for double-vaccinated Aussies.

  • News

    NSW Will Ease Restrictions Again on October 18 But the Regional Travel Ban Will Remain in Place

    New South Wales will hit the 80-percent double-vaccinated mark over the weekend — and, after these upcoming changes, will also loosen even more rules on November 1.

  • News

    The NSW Government's Dine & Discover Scheme Is Giving Everyone Two More $25 Vouchers

    You'll have until June 2022 to use the vouchers to support hospitality, arts and recreation venues across the state.

  • News

    Here's the Full List of Eased Restrictions at Each Stage of NSW's Roadmap Out of Lockdown

    Sydney has reopened after almost four months in lockdown — and if you're wondering what you can do, what's changed and what's still to come, we've run through the details.

  • News

    Australians with Severely Compromised Immune Systems Can Get a Third COVID-19 Jab From October 11

    The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation has confirmed the booster shots for severely immunocompromised Aussies, which'll start being rolled out from October 11.

  • News

    NSW's Roadmap Out of Lockdown Has Been Tweaked Now That the State Has Hit 70-Percent Double Jabs

    New NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced changes to at-home and outdoor gathering caps, indoor swimming pool rules and wearing masks.

  • News

    Sydney's Cinemas Will Start Reopening (Again) From October 11

    After almost four months of watching movies on the small screen, it's time to catch a new flick on the big screen.

  • News

    Qantas Will Resume International Flights To and From Australia Next Month

    The airline will restart flights to Los Angeles and London when Australia's international borders will reopen in mid-November.

  • News

    International Travel Will Restart for Vaccinated Aussies on a State-By-State Basis From November

    When 80 percent of eligible residents in a state or territory have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, that state or territory will be permitted to recommence international travel.

  • News

    Qantas and Jetstar Will Increase Domestic Flights From Late October as NSW and Victoria Reopen

    Travel between New South Wales and Victoria will resume on Friday, November 5, while flights within regional NSW will ramp up from Monday, October 25.

  • News

    This Is What New South Wales' Full Roadmap Out of Lockdown Looks Like

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced the next phase in the state's roadmap out of lockdown, which includes travelling throughout NSW and restarting community sport when 80 percent of NSW residents over 16 are double jabbed.

  • News

    The Moderna Vaccine Is Being Rolled Out Via Australian Pharmacies From This Week

    Three COVID-19 vaccinations, from AstraZeneca, Pfizer and now Moderna, are now available in Australia.

  • News

    Public Outdoor Swimming Pools Will Be Allowed to Reopen Across NSW From September 27

    Councils will need to have a stringent COVID-19 safety plans in place for outdoor pools, and those plans will need be approved by NSW Health.

  • News

    Sydney's LGAs of Concern Will Move to the Same Lockdown Rules as the Rest of Sydney From Tomorrow

    There'll be no time limits on exercising or outdoor recreation, fully vaccinated residents will be able to gather in groups of five outdoors, and the travel radius will now include your LGA.

  • News

    Australia and New Zealand's Trans-Tasman Bubble Will Remain Suspended for Another Eight Weeks

    The pause first started back in July, and will now remain in place until at least mid-November.

  • News

    The Overnight Curfew Will No Longer Apply in Sydney's LGAs of Concern From Tonight

    No other rules are easing for now, but residents in Sydney's hotspot LGAs can now leave the house at any hour — as long as they abide by all of the other restrictions.

  • News

    Here's Where You Can Get NSW Health's Daily COVID-19 Updates From Now On

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian isn't giving daily COVID-19 press conferences anymore, but you can still get the latest case numbers at 11am each morning.

  • News

    Here's What You Can and Can't Do Under Sydney's New Outdoor Recreation Rules

    The New South Wales Government has loosened restrictions around heading out of the house to eat, drink, read a book or relax outdoors. Here's what you need to know.

  • News

    People in LGAs of Concern Will Be Able to Enjoy Two Hours of Outdoor Recreation From September 13

    NSW has just slightly tweaked the new outdoor gathering rules that'll kick in on Monday.

  • News

    Roll Up, Roll Up: A Guide to Booking Your COVID-19 Vaccination in Sydney

    COVID-19 vaccinations are now open to NSW residents under 40 — here's how you can get booking.

  • News

    This Is What the First Stage of New South Wales' Roadmap Out of Lockdown Looks Like

    When the state hits the 70-percent fully vaccinated threshold, people who've had both jabs will be able to head out to pubs, restaurants, shops, gigs and cinemas again.

  • News

    Parts of Regional New South Wales Will Come Out of Lockdown on September 11

    Stay-at-home conditions will lift in parts of regional NSW that are deemed low risk and have had zero COVID cases for at least a fortnight.

  • News

    Residents of Sydney's LGAs of Concern Will Be Able to Enjoy Unlimited Exercise From September 3

    The overnight curfew will still be in place, but you'll be able to head out of the house as much as you like for exercise between 5am–9pm.

  • News

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian Has Given a Glimpse of What'll Ease When 70 Percent of NSW Is Jabbed

    "You can expect to go out and have a meal, you can expect to attend a public event, you can expect to go and get services that you can't expect now."

  • News

    Regional New South Wales Will Remain in Lockdown Until At Least September 10

    Stay-at-home conditions will remain in place for the entire state of New South Wales until at least 12.01am on Saturday, August 28.

  • News

    Outdoor Gathering Rules Will Ease Slightly From September 13 Now That NSW Has Hit Six Million Jabs

    All adults will need to be fully vaccinated — and, while the change doesn't extend to LGAs of concern, families in those areas will be able to go out together for an hour of outdoor recreation. 

  • News

    Qantas Is Aiming to Resume International Flights to Destinations with High Jab Rates From December

    Qantas and Jetstar could start flying between Australia and Singapore, Japan, the US, the UK, Canada and Fiji again by the end of the year.

  • News

    This Helpful Interactive Map Shows NSW's COVID-19 Vaccination Rates by Postcode

    The New South Wales Government maps lets Sydneysiders see the percentage of residents who've had the jab across the city and state.

  • News

    NSW Health Has Confirmed That Sitting Down to Eat Outdoors Is Permitted During Sydney's Lockdown

    You can have a picnic, or sit down to read while you're out of the house for recreation — but only if you're not in Greater Sydney's Local Government Areas of concern.

  • News

    Bunnings Has Shut Its Sydney Stores and Moved to Drive-and-Collect Orders for the Rest of Lockdown

    If doing DIY tasks is getting you through during lockdown, you'll now need to order your supplies online.

  • News

    Here's What You Can and Can't Do Under Sydney's Latest Lockdown Rules

    The lockdown rules have just changed — here’s what you need to know.

  • News

    Restaurants and Bars to Reopen to Fully Vaccinated Patrons Once 70 Percent of NSW Is Jabbed

    NSW Police Minister David Elliott has confirmed that the state is planning to allow pubs, restaurants and gyms to start welcoming in vaxxed customers when it reaches the 70-percent vaccination mark.

  • News

    NSW Residents Will Need to Wear Masks Outside Unless You're Exercising From August 23

    Covering up your face is also compulsory indoors and in many outdoor situations, but the rules are tightening again.

  • News

    A Nighttime Curfew and One-Hour Exercise Rule Will Now Apply in Sydney's 12 LGAs of Concern

    From Monday, August 23, residents of the city's hotspot areas will be under even tighter restrictions — and they'll apply throughout Sydney's third month of lockdown.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Lockdown Has Been Extended Until the End of September

    Sydney has already been under stay-at-home conditions for two months, but the lockdown has just been extended for a further month.

  • News

    Regional New South Wales Will Remain in Lockdown with Greater Sydney Until At Least August 28

    Stay-at-home conditions will remain in place for the entire state of New South Wales until at least 12.01am on Saturday, August 28.

  • News

    NSW Will Look to Ease Restrictions for Vaccinated Sydneysiders Once the State Hits Six Million Jabs

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that "once we get to six million jabs, we'll be able to consider opportunities for what we might be able to do in September and October that we can't currently do."

  • News

    The Entire State of New South Wales Is Going Into Lockdown

    All of New South Wales will be under stay-at-home conditions from 5pm on Saturday, August 14, with lockdown in regional NSW set to last until at least 12.01am on Sunday, August 22.

  • News

    Here's How to Measure What's Five Kilometres From Your Home During Sydney's Lockdown

    From 12.01am on Monday, August 16, residents of in lockdown will only be permitted to venture five kilometres from their homes.

  • News

    Greater Sydney Is Implementing Stricter Lockdown Rules Including a Citywide Five-Kilometre Limit

    The restrictions around leaving the house, leaving the region and having singles bubbles are changing, and bigger fines are also being put in place for folks breaching those rules.

  • News

    NSW's Dine & Discover Vouchers Are Being Extended Until June 2022

    You can use them on takeaway food during lockdown, or wait until Sydney's stay-at-home restrictions end.

  • News

    Three More Greater Sydney LGAs Are Being Placed Under Tighter Lockdown Restrictions

    From 5pm on Thursday, August 12, folks in the Bayside, Strathfield and Burwood LGAs will only be able to travel five kilometres from home — and will be required to wear masks whenever they leave the house.

  • News

    Four LGAs in the Byron Bay Area Have Joined New South Wales' Expanding Lockdown

    The Byron Shire, Richmond Valley, Lismore and Ballina Shire Local Government Areas are now under the same stay-at-home conditions as Greater Sydney.

  • News

    The Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Has Just Been Approved for Use in Australia

    Ten million doses will join Australia's vaccine rollout in 2021, joining the AstraZeneca and Pfizer jabs.

  • News

    Sydney's Best Same-Day Delivery Services Bringing Booze, Food and Plants to Your Doorstep

    Whether you're after vegan doughnuts or new bed threads, these services will deliver it all within just a few hours.

  • News

    This Helpful Interactive Map Shows COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics Across New South Wales

    The map lets Sydneysiders see where vaccination clinics are located across the city.

  • News

    Twelve Suburbs in the Penrith Local Government Area Have Been Placed Under Tighter Restrictions

    The five-kilometre rule and mandatory mask mandate came into effect at 5pm on Sunday, August 8.

  • News

    Vivid Sydney Has Cancelled Its 2021 Festival and Is Planning to Return Next Winter Instead

    Instead of trying to postpone again around Sydney's current outbreak and lockdown, the light, music and art-filled festival will focus on planning for next year.

  • News

    Vaccinated Aussies Will Be Able to Travel Overseas When 80 Percent of the Country Has Had the Jab

    Bringing back international travel for vaccinated Australians is part of the third stage of National Cabinet's just-tweaked 'National Plan to transition Australia's National COVID Response'.

  • News

    Mandatory Masks and a Five-Kilometre Rule Will Now Apply in Sydney's Eight LGAs of Concern

    Greater Sydney reported 239 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours.

  • News

    Here's How to Measure What Is Ten Kilometres From Your Home During Sydney's Lockdown

    During Greater Sydney's extended lockdown, you can only exercise and shop within ten kilometres of your house.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Introducing Singles Bubbles for the Next Four Weeks of Lockdown

    For the past five weeks, Sydneysiders who live alone haven't been able to have visitors to their homes — but that's now changing.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Lockdown Is Being Extended for Another Four Weeks

    And you can now only go shopping within ten kilometres of your house, or in your Local Government Area.

  • News

    NSW Is Set to Release a Roadmap Detailing Greater Sydney's Restrictions for the Coming Months

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the roadmap will outline how the area can "live as freely and as safely as possible until we get enough vaccines in arms."

  • News

    Australia and New Zealand's Trans-Tasman Bubble Has Been Suspended for At Least Eight Weeks

    With three Australian states currently in lockdown, New Zealand has once again paused quarantine-free travel.

  • News

    Residents of Two More Sydney LGAs Are Now Only Allowed to Leave Their Areas for Essential Work

    Stricter conditions are coming into effect for residents of the Cumberland and Blacktown Local Government Areas.

  • News

    Queensland Is Shutting Its Borders to All of New South Wales From Tomorrow

    Almost a month after it closed to Greater Sydney, Queensland will shut its borders to all of New South Wales from 1am on Friday, July 23.

  • News

    Sydney's Public Transport Services Have Been Cut by Up to 50 Percent for the Next Fortnight

    For the rest of lockdown, trains and buses are running on Sunday timetables, and Sydney Metro and light rail are doing reduced services.

  • News

    Greater Sydney Is Being Placed Under Stricter New Lockdown Measures Until July 30

    Only critical retail stores will be able to remain open, you'll always need to carry a mask with you, and residents of three Local Government Areas will not longer be able to leave their areas for work.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Must Now Wear Masks in More Outdoor Situations — and Always Carry One With Them

    You'll now need to mask up at outdoor markets and shopping strips, and while standing in outdoor queue waiting for coffees and food.

  • News

    This Interactive Map Shows COVID-19 Case Alerts for NSW Venues

    The map lets Sydneysiders see which venues are linked to positive COVID-19 cases — and the action required if you visited them.

  • News

    Vivid Has Postponed Its Already-Delayed 2021 Festival From August to September

    Due to Sydney's current outbreak and lockdown, the citywide arts festival has been pushed back a month.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Current COVID-19 Lockdown Will Continue Until At Least July 30

    Almost three weeks in, Sydney's stay-at-home conditions have been extended for at least another two weeks.

  • News

    Some Workers in Greater Sydney Are Now Required to Get Regular COVID-19 Tests

    Anyone leaving Greater Sydney for essential work must get tested weekly — and everyone who lives in the Fairfield Local Government Area but works elsewhere must get tested every 72 hours.

  • News

    Face Masks Are Now Compulsory in All Residential Complex Common Areas in Greater Sydney

    Masks are now required in apartment building lobbies, foyers, lifts, stairwells, corridors and shared laundries.

  • News

    Victoria Has Classed All of NSW and the ACT as Red Zones and Closed Its Borders

    On Sunday, July 11, NSW reported 77 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases — and that daily tally is expected to grow.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Lockdown Restrictions Are Tightening in Response to Rising Case Numbers

    "The strongest message is: do not leave your home unless you absolutely have to."

  • News

    These Handy Interactive Maps Show NSW's COVID-19 Cases by Postcode and Location

    The New South Wales Government maps lets Sydneysiders see which areas are hotspots.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Urging Sydneysiders to Avoid Contact with Other Households

    "Please avoid contact with other households — please avoid visiting family and friends, because you are not allowed to," said New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

  • News

    The Greater Sydney Area Will Remain in Lockdown Until Midnight on July 16

    Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong have been under stay-at-home orders since June 26.

  • News

    This Is What Australia's New Four-Phase Pathway Out of COVID-19 Looks Like

    Following a National Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a new plan — although there's no timeframes attached at present.

  • News

    These Sydney Restaurants Are Offering New Takeaway Options to Help You Eat Well at Home

    Make lockdown a little bit better with fried chicken ramen, slow-roasted lamb and bottled cocktails.

  • News

    NSW's Dine & Discover Vouchers Will Now Run Until August and Can Be Used on Takeaway During Lockdown

    Originally, the scheme was due to end on June 30, but it has now been extended twice.

  • News

    Quarantine-Free Travel Is Set to Resume Between New Zealand and Some Australian States

    From Sunday, July 4, New Zealand will restart the trans-Tasman bubble with Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the ACT.

  • News

    Quarantine-Free Travel Between Australia and New Zealand Has Been Paused

    New Zealand has suspended the trans-Tasman bubble until at least Tuesday, June 29 due to the growing number of locally acquired COVID-19 cases across Australia.

  • News

    All of Greater Sydney Is Going Into Lockdown Until July 9 in a Bid to Contain the Current Outbreak

    From 6pm, Saturday, June 26, all of Greater Sydney, the Blue Mountains, the Central Coast and Wollongong will be under stay-at-home orders for the next fortnight.

  • News

    Queensland Requires Anyone Who's Been in Four Sydney Local Government Areas to Go Into Lockdown

    Parts of Sydney are about to be placed under stay-at-home orders — and the same level of restrictions will apply to anyone who has been in the region since June 11 and is now in Queensland.

  • News

    The City of Sydney, Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick Will Be Under Stay-at-Home Orders for the Next Week

    From 11.59pm tonight, Friday, June 25, anyone who lives or works in the four Sydney Local Government Areas will only be able to leave the house for four reasons.

  • News

    Queensland and Victoria Are Closing Their Borders to All of Greater Sydney

    Initially, the two states only shut their borders to seven Sydney Local Government Areas; however, the border closure is now extending to the entire Greater Sydney region.

  • News

    Greater Sydney Is Bringing Back Gathering Restrictions, Travel Limits and Dancing Bans

    You'll only be able to have five people over to your house for the next week — and if you live or work in the City of Sydney, Waverley, Woollahra, Bayside, Canada Bay, Inner West and Randwick Local Government Areas, you won't be able to leave the city.

  • News

    Queensland and Victoria Are Closing Their Borders to Seven Sydney Local Government Areas

    Both states are closing their borders to the City of Sydney, Waverley, Woollahra, Bayside, Canada Bay, Inner West and Randwick LGAS in response to Sydney's current COVID-19 outbreak.

  • News

    Quarantine-Free Travel Between NZ and NSW Has Been Paused Due to Sydney's Latest Outbreak

    The suspension has been put in place for 72 hours initially, and will be under constant review.

  • News

    Masks Will Be Compulsory on Public Transport and in Indoor Venues Across Sydney for Another Week

    Greater Sydney's mask mandate is being extended, and will now apply throughout the entire region.

  • News

    IKEA Tempe and Central Station Have Joined NSW's 106-Venue List of Exposure Sites

    The list of places visited by Sydneysiders who've since tested positive to COVID-19 continues to grow.

  • News

    Face Masks Are Now Compulsory in Public Indoor Spaces in Seven Sydney Local Government Areas

    You'll need to wear them inside in hospitality venues, shops and any other indoor situation where you aren't eating or drinking.

  • News

    Residents of Sydney's Eastern Suburbs Are Asked to Avoid Social Gatherings for the Next Few Days

    The request follows Sydney's latest locally acquired COVID-19 cases, with everyone across the city asked to be extra cautious.

  • News

    These Eastern Suburbs Venues Have Been Named As Exposure Sites Following a New Local COVID-19 Case

    NSW Health has sent out an alert for a number of locations, including several spots in Bondi Junction and Vaucluse.

  • News

    Australia Is Still Aiming to Implement a Travel Bubble with Singapore "Sooner Rather Than Later"

    It doesn't look likely to happen by July, as first suggested, but the two countries are still working towards the travel bubble.

  • News

    NSW Residents Now Have an Extra Month to Redeem Their $25 Dine & Discover Vouchers

    The scheme was initially slated to end on June 30, but has now been extended until July 31.

  • News

    NSW Residents Who Visited These Venues In and Around Jervis Bay Must Get Tested and Self-Isolate

    A positive COVID-19 case from Melbourne visited Jervis Bay, Goulburn, Hyams Beach and Vincentia while potentially infectious on Sunday, May 23 and Monday, May 24.

  • News

    NSW Will Require Anyone Who's Been in Victoria After 4pm Today to Follow Stay-at-Home Conditions

    The state is going into lockdown — and the same level of restrictions will apply to anyone who has been in the region and heads to NSW.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Urging Sydneysiders to Postpone Non-Urgent Travel to Greater Melbourne

    NSW Health has also issued a number of requests that cover folks from Victoria who have already made their way to NSW — or plan to in the future.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Will No Longer Need to Wear Face Masks From May 17

    But they remain strongly recommended if you can't maintain social distancing.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Current Gathering Restrictions and Dancing Ban Will Lift Tomorrow

    No further community-acquired COVID-19 cases have been identified.

  • News

    Masks Will Remain Compulsory on Public Transport and in Some Indoor Situations Until May 17

    Greater Sydney's mask mandate has been extended by a week — but a few slight changes to the rules have come into effect.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Dancing Ban and Gathering Restrictions Have Been Extended Until May 17

    The link between the recent community-acquired cases and hotel quarantine hasn't yet been identified, so the New South Wales Government is keeping its current rules in place for another week.

  • News

    Here Are All of Sydney's COVID-19 Exposure Sites Going Into the Mother's Day Weekend

    Twenty-three locations have been identified so far — here's the list.

  • News

    Quarantine-Free Travel Between New Zealand and New South Wales Has Been Paused

    The New Zealand Government has suspended the travel bubble after two locally acquired COVID-19 cases were identified in Sydney this week.

  • News

    Queensland Now Requires Anyone Who Has Been to a Sydney Exposure Site to Go Into Quarantine

    The Sunshine State hasn't shut its border to NSW, but it has implemented new rules that apply to anyone heading north.

  • News

    Face Masks Will Be Mandatory Indoors and on Public Transport in Greater Sydney From 5pm Today

    If you catch public transport, go shopping or head to an indoor event, you'll need to mask up.

  • News

    Dancing Bans and At-Home Gathering Restrictions Have Been Announced for Greater Sydney

    The rules come into effect at 5pm tonight — but if you're able to adopt them earlier, you're asked to.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Who Visited These Venues Are Asked to Get Tested and Self-Isolate

    NSW Health has sent out an alert for a number of locations, after a new locally acquired COVID-19 case was identified in the city's eastern suburbs.

  • News

    Travel Requirements and Border Rules Are Changing in Response to Perth's COVID-19 Lockdown

    The city has gone into lockdown, so Australia's states have implemented new requirements regarding entry, testing and quarantine.

  • News

    Sydney's Buses, Trains and Ferries Will Be Able to Up Their Capacity to 75 Percent From April 19

    Which means that 66 people will be allowed on a bus and 122 on a train carriage.

  • News

    Gathering and Venue Restrictions Are Being Reintroduced in the Byron Bay Area Over Easter

    New rules are coming into effect in the Byron, Ballina, Tweed and Lismore shires, which may have an impact on this year's Bluesfest.

  • News

    NSW Requires Anyone Who Has Been in Greater Brisbane Since March 20 to Stay at Home

    The area has gone into lockdown — and the same level of restrictions now apply to anyone who has been in the region and is currently in NSW.

  • News

    Domestic Border Restrictions Are Changing Around Australia Due to Brisbane's New COVID-19 Cluster

    With the Greater Brisbane area going into lockdown, authorities across the rest of the country have been changing their border rules.

  • News

    NSW Residents Who Visited These Byron Bay Venues Are Asked to Get Tested and Self-Isolate

    Over the weekend, the area was visited by two people from Brisbane who've since tested positive for COVID-19.

  • News

    NSW Is Giving Out 200,000 $100 Accommodation Vouchers to Use on CBD Staycations

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian also announced $31.5 million in other support packages for the tourism, live music and events sectors.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Will No Longer Need to Wear Face Masks on Public Transport From March 29

    They'll no longer be compulsory in any setting — but they are still strongly recommended if you can't maintain social distancing.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Scrapping At-Home Gathering Limits and Bringing Back Dance Floors

    Come Monday, March 29, venues will also move to the one person per two-square-metres rule and entertainment sites will be able to fill to 100-percent capacity.

  • News

    The NSW Government's $25 Dine & Discover Vouchers Are Being Rolled Out Statewide

    They're now available in 67 local government areas, with new regions added weekly.

  • News

    The $25 Dine & Discover Vouchers Have Been Rolled Out to Sydney's CBD and Northern Beaches

    A trial phase been extended to 700 businesses and 125,000 customers across the Sydney CBD, northern beaches and Bega Valley.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Will Be Able to Have 50 People Over to Their Homes From February 26

    Dancing is back at weddings, too — and you'll be able to stand up to have a drink at the pub from March 17.

  • News

    NSW's Stay-at-Home Orders Only Apply to Travellers Returning from Victoria Since February 13

    Originally, it was set to cover anyone who had entered NSW from Victoria since January 29.

  • News

    NSW Requires Anyone Who Has Been at Melbourne Airport During a Ten-Hour Period to Isolate

    You'll need to get tested, too, and remain in isolation for 14 days regardless of the results.

  • News

    Hundreds of NSW Residents Will Have Access to $25 Dine & Discover Vouchers from Today

    A trial phase has kicked off in The Rocks and Broken Hill, before extending to the Sydney CBD and the northern beaches later this month.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Venue Restrictions and Mask Rules Will Ease From February 12

    The two-square-metre rule is coming back — and you'll only need to wear masks on public transport.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Venue Restrictions Are Set to Ease Again From February 12

    If case numbers remain low, the two-square-metre rule will come back into effect — and mask-wearing requirements might change, too.

  • News

    Victoria Is Reopening Its Borders to All of Greater Sydney From 6pm on January 29

    Travellers from all of Sydney will be able to enter the state — and folks from most of NSW won't need to get tested upon arrival.

  • News

    The ACT Is Scrapping the Last of Its Border Restrictions with New South Wales

    Come 3pm on Friday, January 29, there'll no longer be any travel restrictions in place for travel to the ACT — from NSW, or from any other state or territory.

  • News

    SA Is Reopening Its Borders to Greater Sydney If You're Keen for a Wine-Fuelled Holiday

    Sydneysiders will be allowed into SA (without quarantining) from this Sunday — but you will still need to get COVID-19 tests.

  • News

    Queensland's Borders Will Reopen to Greater Sydney on February 1

    The Sunshine State will no longer have any restrictions on travellers from New South Wales.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Will Only Be Required to Wear Face Masks in Some Situations From January 29

    New South Wales' mandatory mask rules are changing — and so are a number of gathering and venue restrictions, too.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Gathering and Venue Restrictions Will Start Rolling Back From January 29

    If COVID-19 case numbers remain low, more restrictions will be eased in a fortnight, too.

  • News

    Western Australia Will Lift Its Hard Border with NSW and Queensland From January 25

    The states will be reclassified as 'low risk' under WA's controlled interstate border system.

  • News

    Victoria Is Reopening to All But One Greater Sydney Local Government Area from 6pm on January 22

    Which means, travellers from all of Sydney, except Cumberland can enter the state once applying for a permit — and self-isolating until receiving a negative test result on arrival.

  • News

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian Says NSW Won't Ease COVID-19 Restrictions Until After Tuesday's Public Holiday

    The Premier remains confident that restrictions can be eased to "pre-Avalon" levels late next week.

  • News

    NSW's $100 Dining and Entertainment Vouchers Will Be Rolled Out From March

    A trial phase will kick off in February, starting with The Rocks and later extending to the Sydney CBD and the northern beaches.

  • News

    Australian Borders May Stay Closed to International Travel Until 2022

    Even with the vaccine rolling out in the coming months, ex-Chief Medical Officer Professor Brendan Murphy expects that travel mightn't return to normal in 2021.

  • News

    Victoria Is Reopening to 25 Greater Sydney Local Government Areas from 6pm on January 18

    Which means, travellers from most of Sydney can now enter the state once applying for a permit — and self-isolating until receiving a negative test result on arrival.

  • News

    Greater Brisbane Is No Longer a Commonwealth-Declared COVID-19 Hotspot

    The city's Grand Chancellor hotel cluster sparked six cases.

  • News

    NSW Has Recorded Two Consecutive Days of Zero Locally Acquired COVID-19 Cases

    But restrictions won't be eased until testing rates increase.

  • News

    The ACT Has Lifted Some of Its Border Restrictions with New South Wales

    Effective since Tuesday, January 12, only folks who've been in 11 specific local government areas are currently unable to enter the territory.

  • News

    The Federal Government Has Declared the Greater Brisbane Area a COVID-19 Hotspot

    Domestic border arrangements with Queensland have been changing, too, in response to Australia's first local case of the new, more contagious coronavirus strain.

  • News

    Face Masks Are Now Mandatory On Domestic Flights Within and International Flights to Australia

    And at airports, too — and international travellers coming to Australia will also be required to undertake a pre-flight test.

  • News

    Northern Beaches' Stay-at-Home Orders Will End on January 10

    The area will adopt the same restrictions as Greater Sydney.

  • News

    NSW Now Requires Anyone Who Has Been in Greater Brisbane Since January 2 to Isolate

    The area will go into lockdown from Friday, January 8 — and the same level of restrictions will apply to anyone from the region coming to or currently in NSW.

  • News

    Queensland Won't Open Its Borders to Greater Sydney Until the End of January at the Earliest

    The Sunshine State is currently closed to 35 local government areas in New South Wales.

  • News

    Australia's COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Has Been Brought Forward and Will Now Start in February

    The aim is to give four million Aussies their first jab by the end of March.

  • News

    The Australian Government Is Planning to Roll Out the COVID-19 Vaccine From Early March

    An exact date hasn't been announced yet, but the rollout has been moved forward from the end of March.

  • News

    Face Masks Will Be Mandatory in Some Indoor Situations for Greater Sydney from Tonight

    If you catch public transport, go shopping or head to the cinema without a mask, you could be fined $200.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Gathering Limits Have Been Tightened Again 'Until Further Notice'

    From midnight tonight, residents of Greater Sydney will be allowed only five visitors in their home.

  • News

    Greater Sydney's Gathering Restrictions Have Been Extended Indefinitely

    But there's a very minor change in place for December 24, 25 and 26.

  • News

    Queensland Is Shutting Its Borders to All of Greater Sydney From December 21

    The Sunshine State only completely opened to its southern neighbour on December 1.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Who Visited These Venues Are Being Told to Get Tested and Self-Isolate

    NSW Health has sent out an alert for a number of venues, including Nomad and the Strawberry Hills Hotel in Surry Hills.

  • News

    Victoria Is Closing Its Borders to All of Greater Sydney and the Central Coast From December 21

    It comes as NSW records 30 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases in the northern beaches area.

  • News

    The NSW Government Strongly Recommends That Sydneysiders Wear Face Masks

    "Even if you live beyond the northern beaches, you should be wearing a mask indoors," said Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Are Urged to "Abandon Non-Essential Activity" for the Next Few Days

    Premier Berejiklian hasn't ruled out further restrictions for Greater Sydney, too, depending on case numbers in the next 24 hours.

  • News

    Sydney Is Reintroducing Stay-at-Home Orders for the Northern Beaches Until Midnight Wednesday

    It's designed to give the NSW Government "sufficient time to get on top of the virus so we can then ease up for Christmas and the New Year moving forward".

  • News

    Sydneysiders in the Northern Beaches Are Being Urged to Stay Home for the Next Three Days

    NSW Health has released a long list of northern beaches locations that positive cases have visited over the past week.

  • News

    Outdoor Events of Up to 5000 People Will Be Allowed to Go Ahead in Sydney From December 7

    All venues other than gyms and nightclubs will move to the one-person-per-two-square-metres rule, too.

  • News

    NSW Is Further Easing Gathering and Small Venue Capacity Limits From December 1

    You'll be able to have 50 people in your backyard or 30 inside, and small cafes will be able to move to the one-person-per-two-square-metres rule.

  • News

    Qantas Will Only Let Passengers Fly Overseas If They've Had a COVID-19 Vaccination

    When international travel to and from Australia resumes, of course.

  • News

    Queensland Is Reopening Its Borders to All of NSW From December 1

    It's set to open to Victoria from that date, too, as long as the state records no new cases in the next 24 hours.

  • News

    The NSW Government Is Advising Sydneysiders to Delay Non-Essential Travel to South Australia

    "The borders are completely open, but if it's not essential travel, think about if you want to go in the next few days," said Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

  • News

    NSW Is Giving Residents $100 in Vouchers to Use at Restaurants and Entertainment Venues

    The scheme, called 'Out & About', is designed to encourage NSW residents to support struggling hospitality and entertainment businesses.

  • News

    Events of Up to 5000 People Will Be Allowed to Go Ahead in Regional NSW Towns This Summer

    Country shows are making a comeback — and discussions about safely holding the Sydney Royal Easter Show are underway.

  • News

    NSW Will Reopen Its Border with Victoria From November 23

    The move comes as Victoria has recorded five consecutive days with zero new COVID-19 cases.

  • News

    Queensland Is Reopening Its Borders to All of NSW Except Greater Sydney From November 3

    That includes 32 local government areas — and the state will also remain closed to Victoria, too.

  • News

    Sydneysiders Who Visited These Southwest Locations Should Monitor for COVID-19 Symptoms

    NSW Health has sent out an alert for a number of venues including IKEA Tempe and Bunnings Gregory Hills.

  • News

    NSW Restaurants, Cafes and Pubs Will Be Allowed to Increase Their Outdoor Capacity From October 16

    And outdoor music performances will be able to host up to 500 people, too.

  • News

    Major NSW Stadiums Will Now Be Allowed to Host 50-Percent Capacity Crowds

    Attendees will have to wear masks while they're going to and from the venue — and the change only applies to major annual events.

  • News

    Queensland Is Unlikely to Reopen Its Borders to NSW and Victoria Until There Is No Community Transmission

    In good news, though, the Sunshine State itself has had "no evidence of community transmission in Queensland now for 28 days".

  • News

    Sydneysiders Who Visited These Shops in the City's West and Northwest Should Monitor for Symptoms

    NSW Health has sent out an alert for a number of venues including IKEA Rhodes, Parramatta Westfield and Castle Towers Shopping Centre.

  • News

    Queensland Is Closing Its Borders to All of Greater Sydney from August 1

    It comes as the state records two new COVID-19 cases in travellers who returned from Victoria via Sydney.

  • News

    A Strict New Border Zone Is Being Introduced Between NSW and Victoria

    The state is also restricting the entry of Victorians to NSW to "extremely limited purposes".

  • News

    New South Wales Residents Are Urged to Avoid Non-Essential Travel and Gatherings

    Community transmission in venues such as hotels, restaurants and gyms, and at social gatherings, is "of particular concern".

  • News

    Sydneysiders Who Visited the Crossroads Hotel Have Been Told to Self-Isolate for Two Weeks

    Nine cases have been directly linked to the Casula pub so far.

  • News

    Queensland Will Reopen Its Border to All Aussie States and Territories Except Victoria from July 10

    "Due to current community transmission levels, the border with Victoria will remain closed — and will be strengthened."

  • News

    Woolworths Has Reintroduced Limits on Toilet Paper and Paper Towel Across Australia

    The move follows "a recent surge in demand across different parts of the country", due to Victoria's recent spike in COVID-19 cases.

  • News

    Australian Borders Likely to Remain Closed to International Travel Until 2021

    But a 'travel bubble' with New Zealand — potentially before next year — is still on the cards.

  • News

    Sydney's Cinemas Will Start Reopening from July 1

    Expect a lineup of new releases, old classics and movies that were screening when cinemas closed.

  • News

    The Number of Commuters Allowed on Sydney's Buses, Trains and Ferries Will Double from July 1

    Which means 23 people will be allowed on a bus and 68 on a train carriage.

  • News

    Queensland Is Aiming to Reopen Its Border By July 10

    If community transmission levels are low in Australia's southern states, the Queensland border could even open earlier.

  • News

    More Than 50 Customers Will Be Allowed Inside Sydney Restaurants, Cafes and Pubs from July 1

    And outdoor stadiums that can fit up to 40,000 people will be allowed to fill a quarter of their seats.

  • News

    Here's What You Can Do from July 1 Under NSW's New Eased Restrictions

    You can now watch the footy IRL, catch a flick on the big screen and start planning a trip to sunny Queensland.

  • News

    All Community Sport Will Be Allowed to Kick Off Again in NSW from July 1

    Both adults and children will be able to head back to the sports field, but the NSW Government has not yet announced lifted restrictions for spectators.

  • News

    NSW's Gyms, Yoga Studios and Tattoo Parlours Will Be Allowed to Reopen from June 13

    Massage parlours, indoor pools and saunas will be allowed to reopen, too.

  • News

    This Is What You Can and Can't Do in NSW from June 1

    The state's COVID-related rules are easing again — here's what you need to know.

  • News

    NSW's Beauty Salons Will Be Allowed to Reopen from June 1

    A lot is changing for Sydneysiders on the first of next month.

  • News

    Sydney Restaurants, Cafes and Pubs Will Be Allowed to Have Up to 50 Customers from June 1

    Regional travel within NSW and the reopening of art galleries, museums and libraries will also be allowed from the first of next month.

  • News

    NSW Art Galleries, Museums and Libraries Will Be Allowed to Reopen from June 1

    Visitors will be limited to one per four square metres and returned books will need to be quarantined for 24 hours.

  • News

    These Are the Sydney Ocean Pools You Can and Can't Swim At

    You can now get a swim session in without the risk of rips (or sharks).

  • News

    NSW Will Start Easing Some Stay-at-Home Restrictions From May 15

    That means gatherings of up to ten people outside of homes are allowed, and restaurants and cafes can open (with some rules).

  • News

    This Is What Australia's Three-Step Roadmap Out of COVID-19 Lockdown Looks Like

    Step one includes regional travel, opening restaurants and gatherings of up to ten — and all three steps are expected to be implemented by July.

  • News

    Australian Cinemas Are Aiming to Reopen in July

    Ideally, they'll start their projectors whirring again in time for the planned mid-July release of Christopher Nolan's 'Tenet'.

  • News

    The NSW Government Says No New COVID-19 Restrictions Will Be Eased Before Mother's Day

    The national cabinet is expected to announce the relaxation of some restrictions tomorrow, but the NSW Premier says they will not be implemented locally in time for the weekend.

  • News

    The Australian Government Could Relax Social Distancing and Public Gathering Restrictions from May 8

    "Australians have earned an early mark," said Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

  • News

    These Are the Sydney Beaches You Can and Can't Exercise At

    Sunbaking is off-limits at all beaches, but you can run, swim and surf at some of them.

  • News

    All Australians Can Now Get Tested for COVID-19 If They Are Showing Any Cold or Flu Symptoms

    If you have a cough, sore throat, runny nose or cold and flu-like symptoms, you can now get tested.

  • News

    Australian Borders Look to Remain Closed to International Travel for at Least Three-to-Four Months

    But travel between Australia and NZ could be allowed to start before then.

  • News

    Bondi and Bronte Beach Will Reopen to Surfers and Swimmers Only from Next Week

    The eastern suburbs beaches will only open at specific times and "land-based activities" are still off-limits.

  • News

    Australian Supermarkets Are Starting to Lift Some Limits on Everyday Items

    Restrictions are still in place on items such as toilet paper, hand sanitiser, pasta and rice, though.

  • News

    Here's What the NSW Government's Moratorium on Rental Evictions Means for You

    To help those financially impacted by COVID-19, the government has temporarily banned some evictions. But there's a bit of fine print — here's what you need to know.

  • News

    NSW's Social Distancing and Public Gathering Restrictions Could Be Relaxed Next Month

    Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the restrictions were being assessed monthly and could be relaxed as early as May.

  • News

    This Is What People Have Been Fined for in Australia Under the New State-Specific COVID-19 Rules

    An L-plater taking a driving lesson and a man eating a kebab on a bench are two people who've been fined for flouting the social distancing restrictions.

  • News

    TAFE NSW Is Now Offering 21 Free Online Short Courses So You Can Upskill at Home

    If you're eligible, you could learn about e-marketing, social media or pharmacy without paying a cent.

  • News

    Australian Supermarkets Are Implementing Limits on the Number of Customers Allowed In Store

    Coles, Woolworths and Aldi have introduced the restrictions to enforce social-distancing measures.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Announced a Two-Person Limit on Public Gatherings

    Prime Minister Scott Morrison also said that people should only be leaving their homes to buy essentials, for medical needs, to exercise or for work and education.

  • News

    The Government Is Advising Australians to Stay at Home Unless It's "Absolutely Necessary" to Go Out

    It has also ordered all beauty therapy, nail salons and tattoo parlours to close by midnight.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Announced a Mass Closure of Indoor Venues from Today

    Clubs, pubs, gyms, cinemas and casinos will close from midday, while cafes and restaurants will be allowed to continue as takeaway and delivery only.

  • News

    NSW Will Implement a Statewide Shutdown of Non-Essential Services Over the Next 48 Hours

    Further details will be provided once the national cabinet meets tonight.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Advised That All Non-Essential Travel Should Be Cancelled

    And the Prime Minister has warned that local lockdowns are on the cards, too.

  • News

    Continental Deli's Canned Cocktails Are Now Available to Take Away

    Usually, you'd be sipping a Mar-tinny. Now, you'll be knocking back a Quaran-tinny.

  • News

    The New South Wales Government Has Ordered the Temporary Closure of Bondi Beach

    And other popular Sydney beaches are closing in response to the 500-person restriction, too.

  • News

    This New Neighbourhood Pass Lets You Make the Most of Surry Hills' Restaurants, Bars and Venues

    Paramount House Hotel has joined forces with other local businesses to offer curated vouchers for the area's food, drinks and experiences.

  • News

    The Government Has Introduced New Restrictions on Non-Essential Indoor Events Under 100 People

    A limit of one person per four square metres has been recommended, which will impact nightclubs, restaurants and pubs.

  • Guide

    The Best Virtual Events to Hit Up If Cabin Fever Is Starting to Set In

    Get 'out of the house' with live opera, gallery tours and couch choirs.

  • News

    Qantas and Jetstar Will Suspend International Flights from Late March

    The airlines will also temporarily stand down two-thirds of their 30,000 staff.

  • News

    Palace Is Closing All of Its Australian Cinemas for an Indefinite Period

    And this year's Sydney Film Festival has been cancelled, too.

  • News

    Australian Supermarkets Have Implemented Strict Limits on Everyday Items to Stop Hoarding

    Both Coles and Woolworths have introduced a two-packet limit on items such as frozen desserts, soap, mince meat and milk.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Introduced a Ban on Non-Essential Indoor Events of More Than 100 People

    The ban, which does not include public transport, supermarkets or schools, is effective immediately.

  • News

    Virgin Australia Will Suspend All International Flights from March 30

    And it'll cut domestic flights by 50 percent, too.

  • News

    The Sydney Opera House Has Cancelled All Public Performances Until At Least June 17

    Its restaurants, bars, retail outlets and public areas will remain open for now, though.

  • News

    Australian ANZAC Day Commemorations Are Being Cancelled and Downscaled Due to COVID-19

    All services have been scrapped in NSW and Qld, and some services will go ahead in Vic, but the public will not be able to attend.

  • News

    Concrete Playground's Statement on COVID-19: Let's Continue to Support Local Businesses

    Going out might not be at the top of your to-do list right now, but you can help small businesses without leaving your apartment.

  • News

    Here's What Has Been Cancelled, Postponed and Suspended Across Australia Due to COVID-19

    From the Royal Easter Show to Vivid and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, here's where the industry has been hit.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Announced That Everyone Arriving From Overseas Must Self-Isolate for 14 Days

    Australians have also been advised to take social distancing measures, including refraining from shaking hands.

  • News

    The Australian Government Has Announced a Ban on Non-Essential Events of More Than 500 People

    The ban, which will impact the likes of sporting games, concerts and food festivals, will come into place on Monday, March 16.

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