Published on Tuesday, 12 May 2020 at 3:00:00 PM
Phase 2 - Easing of restrictions - frequently asked questions
Why are these easing of restrictions taking place?
The latest easing of restrictions by the WA Government is due to the continued low number of new COVID-19 cases. The easing of restrictions will begin the process of restarting the State’s economy by helping to get many Western Australians safely back to work.
The current health advice is that we can cautiously begin to re-open certain venues and facilities, and increase indoor and outdoor non-work gatherings to a maximum of 20 people, while of course continuing to practise social distancing and good personal hygiene.
What (if any) social gathering and venue restrictions have been lifted?
The easing of restrictions will allow for indoor and outdoor gatherings of up to 20 people at any one time in public places.
Restaurants and cafés (including in pubs, bars, hotels, the casino and community clubs), are permitted to open for table service meals where there is 4 square metres of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 seated patrons at any one time. Alcohol can only be served as ancillary to a meal. All patrons are encouraged to practice social distancing and good personal hygiene at all times.
Is it safe to go out now that restrictions are lifted?
Based on health advice, it is currently considered safe to go out to public places that are open, provided you maintain good personal hygiene practices and adhere to social distancing guidelines.
The Western Australian community is encouraged to support the State’s economy by re-engaging with local business, including the hospitality industry.
Do I still need to social distance when I go out?
Yes, you should always practice social distancing when you go out. It is recommended that you keep 1.5m away from others where possible and maintain good personal hygiene.
People should be aware that transmission of the virus is still possible and they should not become complacent with their social distancing and personal hygiene.
The exemptions to the restriction on gatherings remain the same. People are still able to gather in groups of more than 20 in an office building, factory, mining site, construction site, school and childcare facilities, public transport, supermarkets, food markets, grocery stores, retail stores or shopping centres, airports, emergency services, prisons, disability and aged care facilities, courts, tribunals, Parliament, and hotels, motels or other accommodation.
Are all businesses now open?
No. There are still restrictions in place that limit or prevent some businesses from opening, however, these restrictions will be reviewed in the next phase of the roadmap, around four weeks from the start of Phase 2.
If restrictions are lifted and then an outbreak occurs – what will happen then?
To avoid an outbreak, people must continue to abide by the restrictions in place, observe social distancing and practice good personal hygiene. If an outbreak occurs after restrictions are lifted, the State Government will consult with health experts and an appropriate response will be implemented.
Why aren’t we waiting until the school and FIFO testing results all come back before we start rolling back other restrictions?
While there is no evidence of community transmission at the moment, the State’s low numbers have allowed the WA Government, in partnership with the best health researchers, to enhance testing in order to identify any undetected cases in the community.
We are committed to finding out all we can about this virus and will continue to do all we can to better protect Western Australians.
Research and testing are now underway, which complement a range of measures the State Government has implemented to combat COVID-19 and so far, the results have been encouraging. Paired with advice from health experts, we can now start adjusting the restrictions. This will enable many people to go back to work, which will assist in kick-starting the State’s economy.
Why is WA not following the National Cabinet guidelines?
The National Cabinet framework was released on Friday, 8 May with the Prime Minister leaving it to individual States and Territories to implement their own plans.
WA is in a far more fortunate position than other States and Territories. Stronger restrictions, like WA’s hard border, has resulted in far fewer cases and WA has no evidence of community spread.
The easing of restrictions will begin the process of re-starting the State’s economy by helping to get many Western Australians safely back to work and allow the State to cautiously begin to reopen certain venues and facilities, and increase indoor and outdoor non-work gatherings to a maximum of 20 people.
Returning to work
When should I return to work?
We want Western Australians back at work as soon as possible. The cautious easing of these restrictions will mean more people can return to work, though there will still be some exceptions.
If you’re unsure about whether to return to work, contact your employer to discuss your workplace plan.
What should I do if I’m concerned my workplace is not safe?
In the first instance, you should discuss your concerns with your employer and discuss ways to alleviate them.
If after discussing the matter with your employer you’re still concerned, you may wish to get further advice and/or contact a workplace advocate.
- Worksafe WA - 1300 307 877
- Fair Work Ombudsman - 13 13 94
- Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission - (08) 9420 4444
- Australian Unions - 1300 486 466
What if I’m unhappy with the conditions of my return to work?
In the first instance, you should discuss your concerns with your employer and discuss ways to alleviate them.
If you’re dissatisfied, you may wish to get further advice and/or contact a workplace advocate.
- Worksafe WA - 1300 307 877
- Fair Work Ombudsman - 13 13 94
- Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission - (08) 9420 4444
- Australian Unions - 1300 486 466
I work in the public sector should I return to work?
Employees are to begin returning to their usual places of work and working arrangements.
We’re encouraging the public sector to head back to the office unless you’re unwell or are a vulnerable employee as defined by the AHPPC.
Returning to normal working arrangements for vulnerable employees in high risk categories, including those in high risk work settings, should continue to be managed as per PSLR Circular 6/2020 – Leave arrangements for COVID-19 (PDF).
Entertainment, hospitality and food venues
What is now permitted under the easing of restrictions?
In addition to any takeaway services they may already be providing, hospitality venues such as restaurants and cafes (including those in pubs and hotels) can now open for business, but only to the extent that they provide table service meals to patrons. The limitations around opening include:
- there must be at least 4 square metres of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons
- alcohol can only be served ancillary to a substantial meal
- operators must abide by a COVID Safety Plan.
Nightclubs must remain closed.
What is a COVID Safety Plan?
Prior to reopening, all businesses including hospitality, sports and recreation, and community and cultural venues will need to complete a COVID Safety Plan and have it available for inspection by authorising officers.
The WA Government has begun consulting with key stakeholders to develop COVID Safety Plans and Guidelines which will be available online at WA.gov.au this week.
This includes consultation with the hospitality, community and cultural venues, and sport and recreation sectors.
Can I go to the pub just to have a drink?
No. Pubs can only open for table service meals. However, you will be able to order a drink with your meal.
Are nightclubs, pubs and bars open?
Nightclubs must remain closed, but all other licensed venues may open to provide table service meals only.
Where a licensed venue is open, there must be 4 square meters of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan.
I own a fast food outlet in a food court, can my patrons now dine in?
No. Food courts can remain open for takeaway only.
I own a food van. Can I now return to my local public place for my regular business hours?
Yes. A food van can operate for takeaway purposes only. Normal social distancing and hygiene measures apply.
I own a nightclub, I sell drinks but not food, can I open?
No. Nightclubs must remain closed.
I am a café owner. What can I do if a patron has made a minimal order but insists on being one of my 20 patrons for a period of several hours? Can I ask them to leave?
Yes. These restrictions do not change any existing authority that you have in relation to your café. In those circumstances you can ask anyone to leave your premises.
I own a pub – can I start having major events and capacity crowds coming through?
No. Pubs can only open to provide table service meals.
Where a licensed venue is open, there must be 4 square meters of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan.
I own a pub – how do I ensure that patrons order food and not just a drink?
It is up to individual business owners how they wish to enforce the restrictions. You may wish to speak to the Australian Hotels Association for further guidance on how to do this.
Is Crown Casino open for gambling?
No, the gaming floor of Crown Casino is to remain closed for gambling purposes.
Can the restaurants or bars at the Crown Casino or other multi-venue premises open?
Yes. Each individual hospitality venue within a multi-venue premises can only open to provide table service meals.
Where a venue is open, there must be 4 square meters of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan.
I’m thinking about staying at Crown Towers but only if I can visit the Crystal Club. Will hotels be allowed to open their VIP lounges?
No, unless the lounge provides a table service meal. If table service meals are provided, then they may open, subject to the restrictions that have been imposed.
Will restaurants and cafes be permitted to reopen?
Yes. Restaurants and cafes will be permitted to open to provide table service meals and/or non-alcoholic beverages.
There must be 4 square metres of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan.
Patrons are encouraged to practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from patrons from other households.
Are pubs allowed to open to the public?
Yes. Pubs are permitted to open to provide table service meals.
There must be 4 square metres of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan.
Patrons should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from patrons from other households.
Can a pub/restaurant have people waiting to pick up take-away, while there are 20 people at the venue?
Yes. However, patrons waiting to collect takeaway food should wait outside the venue if there are already 20 people inside the venue. Time spent inside to order, pay and collect their food should be limited and businesses must allow 4 square metres of floor space per patron. Patrons waiting to collect takeaway food should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from patrons from other households.
Can restaurants/cafes have more than 20 people if they have two spaces, one indoor and one outdoor?
No. The total number of seated patrons must not exceed 20 people at a time, regardless of whether there are any segregated spaces within the venue.
Is the 20 patron limit including staff members in the premises?
No, the 20 patron limit does not include staff members.
How many staff members can I have working at one time?
You can roster as many staff members as required, provided they are able to practise social distancing.
Does every staff member need to complete the AHA Hospitality and Tourism COVID-19 Hygiene Course?
Yes.
Do staff members need to social distance if they are working in a kitchen?
Yes, social distancing and good hygiene practices should continue to be observed.
Do I have to use a booking system or can people enter the premises without one?
This is at the discretion of the venue owner/manager, however, a record of dine-in patrons, including contact details, will be required as part of a COVID Safety Plan to ensure contact tracing can be done if necessary.
I’m concerned about the restaurant using my personal details to market their products to me. What will they do with my personal details?
Your personal details are being collected to allow for contact tracing.
Many restaurants will be bound by privacy laws which regulate the collection and use of your personal information. If you are concerned about how your personal information will be used you can raise the issue with the restaurant.
However, patrons will not be permitted to dine at a restaurant without providing their contact details.
Are cinemas now open?
No, cinemas, whether indoors or outdoors, are not permitted to open.
My venue can accommodate more than 20 patrons with social distancing, is this allowed?
No. The maximum number of patrons is 20.
If I am caught with more than 20 patrons in my restaurant, or if I allow more than 1 person per 4sqm in the venue, what are the consequences/fines?
It is an offence to fail to comply with the Directions. The maximum penalty for this offence is:
- imprisonment for 12 months or a fine of $50,000;
- a fine of $5,000 for each separate and further offence.
If the offence is committed by a company, the maximum fine is increased to $250,000.
An infringement in the amount of $1,000 may be issued, instead of being prosecuted.
Who will be enforcing the rules?
WA Police officers and other authorised officers. Infringements can be issued of $1,000 and offenders can also be prosecuted and face much higher penalties.
Can large pubs with various indoor dining rooms and outdoor alfresco have more than 20 people?
No. The maximum number of total patrons at the venue is capped at 20 people.
What will hospitality businesses need to do to meet hygiene requirements?
Hospitality venues must have a COVID Safety Plan available for inspection by authorising officers. Businesses will be required to put the certificate on display for customers to view.
Already, the State Government in partnership with the AHA has rolled-out an Australian-first COVID-19 hygiene course to help WA hospitality workers prepare for their return to work.
Hospitality workers need to complete the online training course before they return to work.
Businesses must also ensure there is at least 4 square metres of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Will there be a time limit I can be in the venue?
It will be a matter for each venue to decide how to manage the turn-over of patrons.
Can wine tours or wine tasting happen?
No. Cellar doors are not permitted to provide wine tastings.
If the winery has a restaurant that provides wine testing as part of its table service, this is allowed.
Sports and recreation
Are sporting clubs able to return and is full contact allowed?
Sporting activities that are non-contact and involve no more than 20 participants are allowed. This includes children’s sports.
Minimal shared equipment should be used and must be cleaned frequently.
This includes non-contact training for sports that would ordinarily involve contact (such as hockey, basketball, football, soccer and netball).
Contact sports remain a prohibited activity.
Separate rules apply for the use of places like club rooms. Club rooms must comply with gathering restrictions which require at least 4 square metres per person, up to a maximum of 20 people in total in the venue.
What is a COVID Safety Plan?
Prior to reopening, all businesses including hospitality, sports and recreation, and community and cultural venues will need to complete a COVID Safety Plan and have it available for inspection by authorising officers.
The WA Government has begun consulting with key stakeholders to develop COVID Safety Plans and Guidelines which will be available online at WA.gov.au this week.
This includes consultation with the hospitality, community and cultural venues, and sport and recreation sectors.
I own a gym – do I need to prepare and present a COVID Safety Plan for my gym?
Yes, a COVID Safety Plan must be prepared before reopening your gym.
I own a gym – can I now open to all clients?
Gyms can open, but only for fitness classes or small group training up to a maximum of 20 participants and there is 4 square metres of floor space per person, up to a maximum of 20 participants in total at the venue.
Only classes that involve minimal shared equipment should occur.
This means you cannot use any gym machines, like Pilates reformers, weight machines, exercise bicycles, rowing machines, and treadmills.
Equipment must be cleaned between each class or session.
The general gym floor should not be accessible unless part of a supervised personal training session or fitness class that uses minimal shared equipment, as outlined above.
Can outdoor fitness classes and bootcamps occur?
You can attend an indoor or outdoor fitness class as long as there is 4 square meters of floor space for each participant, up to a maximum 20 participants in total.
Minimal sharing of equipment is allowed and must be cleaned frequently. Participants should practice good hygiene and social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Can my yoga or Pilates studio now reopen?
Yes. A yoga or Pilates studio can open for classes, but only where there is 4 square metres of floor space per person, up to a maximum of 20 participants in total at the venue. People should bring their own equipment whenever possible. If any of the studio's equipment is used, it must be equipment that is easy to disinfect and must be disinfected after each use.
Pilates reformer machines are not to be used.
Can I swim in a public swimming pool?
Yes. All swimming pools may now open in a limited capacity. This includes pools as part of resorts, accommodation, retirement villages, swim schools and any other type of indoor or outdoor pool. They are restricted to a maximum of 20 patrons per pool which is also subject to one person per 4 square metres. Changerooms remain closed, but the toilets remain open.
Permitted venues with multiple pools can only open a maximum of one indoor and one outdoor pool at a time, each with a maximum of 20 participants, including spectators and swimmers.
Does that mean hotels and caravan parks can open their pools?
Yes, with a maximum of 20 patrons allowed to swim in the pool at any time, and the 4 square metre rule applied.
Can my water polo team now train?
Yes, if it involves no contact and adheres to social distancing.
What will my local pool have to do in terms of cleaning the pool water and surrounding facilities to ensure I’m safe from COVID-19?
Your local pool is required to complete a COVID Safety Plan which will provide health guidelines to manage hygiene standards.
Can I attend my horse-riding school – what are the restrictions?
Yes. Horse riding schools may open, although they are not permitted to have more than 20 participants at one time.
Riders should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Equipment should be thoroughly sanitised/disinfected between classes.
Can I go shooting for recreation?
Non-contact sport such as shooting is permitted, provided where there is 4 sqm of floor space per person, up to a maximum of 20 people in total at the venue.
Will amusement parks and arcades be reopened?
No. At this stage, amusement parks and arcades remain closed to the public.
Arcade machines in all venues should remain switched off during Phase 2.
Can I attend a fitness class? Do the rules change if it’s indoors?
You can attend an indoor or outdoor fitness class as long as there is 4 square meters of floor space in the venue for each person, up to a maximum 20 participants in total at the venue.
Sharing fitness equipment is prohibited and participants should practice good hygiene and social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Can I use outdoor gym equipment?
No. Outdoor gym equipment remains closed.
Can my dance studio open?
Yes. Dance studios may open as long as there is 4 square meters of floor space in the venue for each person, up to a maximum of 20 participants in total at the venue, including spectators and dancers, not including instructors.
However, the dance must be non-contact, unless from the same household e.g. ballroom dancing with your partner.
Can I play soccer socially at the park if there are 20 of us?
Soccer is a contact sport and is prohibited. However, non-contact training or kick to kick is permitted with up to 20 people at a local park.
The space you’re playing in must be big enough to provide at least 4 square metres per person and participants should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Groups of people playing sports in parks should take care to keep a safe distance from other groups using the park.
Can I play tennis?
Yes, minimal shared equipment is allowed and must be cleaned frequently and participants should practice good hygiene and social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Facilities are restricted to a maximum of 20 patrons and are also subject to one person per 4sqm. Changerooms remain closed, but the toilets remain open.
Can I play golf?
Yes, minimal shared equipment is allowed and must be cleaned frequently and participants should practice good hygiene and social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Facilities are restricted to a maximum of 20 patrons and are also subject to one person per 4sqm. Changerooms remain closed, but the toilets remain open.
Can I now go and play pool or go ten-pin bowling?
No, these restrictions will be reviewed in the next phase of the roadmap, around four weeks from the start of Phase 2.
Can I play lawn bowls?
Yes, no more than 10 persons are permitted to play on each bowling green at a time, and there must be at least 4 square metres of space per person.
Minimal shared equipment is allowed and must be cleaned frequently and participants should practice good hygiene and social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
Facilities are restricted to a maximum of 20 patrons and are also subject to one person per 4sqm. Changerooms remain closed, but the toilets remain open.
Can the bar or restaurant at my local bowls/tennis/golf club open?
Yes, but only to provide table service meals and there must be 4 square meters of floor space per patron in the dining area, up to a maximum of 20 patrons.
Alcoholic beverages may be served ancillary to a meal, and each venue must have a COVID Safety Plan. Patrons should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from patrons from other households.
Socialising / community
Can I visit my local library or community/youth facility?
Libraries and community facilities such as youth centres or senior citizens centres are permitted to open, with a 20 patron limit and ensure there is at least 4 square metres of floor space per patron.
Where a community premises has multiple facilities, there can be up to 20 customers in each facility (e.g. 20 patrons in group fitness room, and 20 patrons in youth centre, 20 patrons in library), as long as there is at least 4 square metres for each customer in the relevant facility.
Why don't workplaces/offices have to meet social distancing requirements?
Gatherings which are necessary for the normal business of offices and other workplaces are not prohibited. Of course, people should still be maintaining social distancing where possible and practicing good hygiene.
Will community facilities like senior’s centres, community centres, community halls be able to open?
Community facilities such as youth centres or senior citizens centres are permitted to open, with a 20 patron limit. There must be at least 4sqm of floor space per patron.
Where a community premises has multiple facilities, there can be up to 20 customers in each facility (e.g. 20 patrons in group fitness room, and 20 patrons in youth centre, 20 patrons in library), as long as there is at least 4 square metres for each customer in the relevant facility.
Can I book my local community centre for bingo?
Yes, up to 20 people are allowed but social distancing must be adhered to, including the 4 square meter rule.
Can I open my nail salon to sell nail polish and other products?
Yes. Beauty therapy parlours etc. are able to open for retail purposes, however the provision of beauty therapy services remains prohibited.
I’m a beauty therapist – can I perform beauty therapy services from home?
No. Beauty services including but not limited to tanning, waxing, massages, nail services, tattooing and piercing, remain prohibited, even on private property.
Can my elderly relatives leave the house and socialise?
Yes. There is no prohibition on elderly relatives leaving the house. However, it is recommended they follow current health advice.
Are playgrounds and skate parks now open?
No, they remain closed. They will be considered as part of Phase 3.
Can I have a picnic with friends?
Picnics of up to 20 people are permitted, though you should keep your distance from other groups and practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people at your picnic.
Travel
Can I now travel or holiday around Western Australia?
Some travel restrictions have been eased to allow people to travel further within WA.
Travel will now be permitted:
- Within the Perth, Peel, the Wheatbelt, South West and Great Southern regions
- Within the Mid-West, Gascoyne and Pilbara regions (excluding the bio-security area in parts of the Shire of East Pilbara that encompass the communities of Jigalong, Martu homeland communities and Kiwirrkurra)
- Within the Goldfields-Esperance region including from other parts of that region into Esperance (but excluding the bio security area of Shire of Ngaanyatarraku)
- Between local government areas in the Kimberley.
Travel into remote Aboriginal communities remains restricted, as does travel within the Federal Government biosecurity areas.
People going on holiday should ensure they continue to practice social distancing measures and good hygiene. Gatherings are limited to 20 people.
People should not go on holiday if they are feeling unwell.
Can I go on a stay-cation at a hotel or Airbnb?
Yes, subject to the new regional travel restrictions.
Does social distancing still remain for passengers traveling in vehicles?
Motor vehicles are exempt from the prohibited gathering restrictions. However, people should still practice social distancing and good hygiene whenever possible.
Can I go camping now?
Camping at national parks and private campsites (including caravan parks) is allowed for guests from within their region only.
The following must be observed:
- adherence to the up to 20-person gathering rule
- social distancing practices must be maintained
- the 4 square metres per person rule should be applied with particular attention to shared facilities and areas such as ablutions/camp kitchens and other communal areas.
- good hygiene practices.
Can people come into WA for a holiday now?
No. Western Australia’s hard border closure remains in place and no exemptions will be given for people to holiday in WA.
I live in the Kimberley, can I now travel within the Kimberley?
Yes. Travel restrictions between local government areas within the Kimberley have now been removed.
Access to remote communities remains restricted.
Strong restrictions still apply for entering the Kimberley region.
Do I still need to apply for an exemption to travel outside of the new regional boundaries?
Yes. If you believe you fall under an exemption category and are required to travel between the regions you will need to apply for approval to travel using G2G PASS or have supporting documentation such as a letter, email or SMS from an employer that proves you meet the criteria to travel into another region.
Information on G2G PASS as well as the online application can be found at www.g2gpass.com.au/
I rent a property as an Airbnb, can I take bookings for my property?
Yes. People are still able to book accommodation and travel as long as it is within their region. Property owners must ensure that bookings do not exceed 1 person per 4 square metres.
Accommodation service providers should ensure a high level of cleaning in between guests staying at their premises.
Can I book a holiday in Broome?
Only if you live within the Kimberley region. Please note the Commonwealth’s biosecurity zone remains in place. If you do not live within this region, you cannot currently book a holiday to Broome.
When can I go to Rottnest Island?
Rottnest Island and its surrounding waters are off limits to the public. The island is currently being used as part of the State’s response to COVID-19 coronavirus.
Will the state borders be open in time for Christmas?
The Western Australian border will only be reopened when it is appropriate to do so. There is no timeframe for this as it depends on a range of factors.
Education – TAFE, university and schools
When will the schools decision be reviewed?
A decision regarding schools will be made in the coming week.
Can my university now run face to face lectures?
This is not a State decision. We encourage people to return to work where possible and it is safe to do so.
Can I attend my metal workshop at TAFE?
We encourage the return to normal arrangements where possible and in accordance with the health guidelines. We are reviewing the resumption of face-to-face classes across all campuses.
Religion, places of worship and ceremonies
How many people can attend my wedding?
Up to 20 attendees (not including the person conducting the ceremony) are permitted at indoor weddings, or up to 30 attendees are permitted at outdoor weddings. Social distancing and 4sqm of floor space per person must be adhered to.
How many people are permitted to attend funerals?
Up to 20 attendees can attend a funeral indoors or up to 30 attendees outdoors, not including the person/s necessary to conduct the service e.g. funeral director (unless the funeral is in a small indoor or outdoor venue and impacted by prohibited gathering rules which require at least 4 square metres per person) unless an exemption is approved.
Communion requires the sharing of a cup, can this practice continue?
This practise is not advised. Current health advice should be followed.
Can I go to church or my place of worship?
Places of worship are permitted to open in a modified way, with a limit of 20 attendees in addition to the people required to conduct and broadcast the service (maximum of 10 people) and one person per 4 square metres.
Arts and cultural centres
Will cultural centres such as concert venues, theatres, arenas, auditoriums, stadiums, galleries, museums, open to the public?
No – arts and cultural centres will remain closed.
Arts and cultural centres are welcome to livestream from their facilities, provided gathering and social distancing restrictions are adhered to by all present during the recording.
Can artwork be sold in a retail shop, including a pop-up space?
Yes, if the shop is for the purposes of selling the artworks, rather than a gallery for an exhibition.
While concert venues cannot open, can musicians perform in public places or on driveways?
Artists performing in a public place must comply with gathering rules which limit the number of people to 20 and require at least 4 square metres per person. All attendees should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
While there is no ban on buskers and street performers, people should not linger around them.
Visiting aged care facilities, hospitals and prisons
Have the rules changed for visits to aged care facilities?
Rules around visiting aged care facilities remain unchanged in Phase 2.
Visits to aged care facilities are limited to:
- a short duration
- one care and support visit per day, with a maximum of two visitors at a time
- emergency management, law enforcement or otherwise responding to an emergency (for example a police officer, fire fighter or ambulance officer)
- providing goods or services for the effective operation of the facility.
You should not enter the facility if you have:
- returned from overseas in the last 14 days
- been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the last 14 days
- a fever or symptoms of acute respiratory infection (e.g. cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath)
- not had an up-to-date influenza vaccination.
While the provision of Aged Care is a Commonwealth Government responsibility, both the WA State and Commonwealth Governments have strongly urged aged care facilities to follow National Cabinet recommendations regarding visitation, rather than a full facility lockdown.
Do I need to have a flu vaccination to visit an aged care facility?
People are allowed to visit relatives in aged care facilities as long as they can demonstrate receipt of this year’s flu vaccination.
This restriction has been put in place to protect older Australians who are at most risk of developing serious illness from COVID-19.
Can I visit a friend or relative in hospital?
Restrictions still apply to hospital visits:
- Children under 16 are not able to visit patients.
- Hospital visiting hours are limited to two hours a day – one in the morning and one in the evening.
- All adult patients, including those in maternity wards, are restricted to two visitors per day; the same two visitors may visit morning and evening.
- Visitors to paediatric patients must be the same family members each day.
- No visitors are allowed to see confirmed COVID-19 adult inpatients or COVID-19 inpatients under investigation.
Can I visit an inmate in prison?
To protect Western Australia’s prisoners, detainees and staff from the spread of COVID-19, social prison visits have been suspended.
Additional phone calls will be available to maintain contact with family, friends and loved ones and the Department is exploring other technological solutions such as Skype.
Prison visits have been suspended around Australia in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Real estate
Can 20 people attend a home open at the same time to view a house for sale?
A maximum of 20 people will be permitted to attend a home open or a home at a display village, however appropriate social distancing and hygiene practices must continue to be observed. Attendees should practice social distancing by keeping 1.5 metres from other people.
A register, including names and contact details, of all attendees must be kept at all times.
Are auction houses and in-person real estate auctions permitted?
No. Auction houses and real estate auctions remain prohibited.
Cautious easing of rectrictions
The WA Government has announced some stage 3 restrictions will be relaxed from Monday, 27 April 2020, following the continued low number of new cases.
Based on health advice, we can cautiously relax the number for indoor and outdoor gatherings to a maximum of 10 people, while practising social distancing.
For more information visit COVID-19 coronavirus: Community advice. or for Frequently asked questions
State of Emergency planning changes
In response to the current State of Emergency for the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Minister for Planning, Hon Rita Saffioti, on 3 April 2020 announced Regulatory changes that came into effect on 3 April 2020.
The new Regulations include provision for the Minister to issue a Notice of Exemption to support the Government’s response to, or recovery from, a State Emergency.
The exemptions remove any barriers within the planning system to ensure flexible and speedy responses to a changing crisis environment, support business and guarantee the provision of essential community services. They include:
- medical or health-related facilities required in response to the COVID-19 pandemic
- truck and logistic companies needing to deliver goods but currently with restricted loading and unloading times
- businesses seeking to adapt by changing their current approved use
- restaurants and cafes required to sell takeaway in contravention of current planning conditions
- people operating their businesses from residential zones
- parking commercial vehicles on residential properties
- a blanket two-year extension for all current development approvals
- businesses needing to change signs
- temporary workers accommodation.
Further information, including a comprehensive FAQ and supplementary explanatory notes is available for viewing on the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage website.
https://www.dplh.wa.gov.au/notice-of-exemptions
The Shire of Toodyay is committed to continuing to service the community to the extent of our abilities whilst Australia deals with the Coronavirus pandemic.
Over the next few months the Shire expects that as the Coronavirus spreads, the State and Federal Government will continue to enact more emergency measures as part of slowing the spread of the virus which our health systems simply are not equipped to deal with.
WA Regional Travel Restrictions
Please note that if you have a question about if you would be considered exempt under the new travel restrictions for WA to travel between regions then you need to get in touch with the State Government.
The Shire is receiving a large number of phone calls and unfortunately we cannot answer these queries as this measure has been implemented by the State Government and the enactment of these measures is being presided over by them.
See their website first and foremost for further information - www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-the-premier-and-cabinet/covid-19-coronavirus-regional-travel-restrictions. It is very clear and a copy of the legislation outlining the travel restrictions and exemptions is also available there.
Please note that YOU DO NOT NEED TO APPLY FOR AN EXEMPTION. If you believe you fall under an exemption category AND are required to travel between these regions you will need to prepare documentation to present to police at the regional check points. This documentation can be a letter/email/SMS from an employer, a copy of your medical referral for an appointment, a copy of your custody arrangement, etc. that supports the legitimate travel.
If you still have not found a satisfactory answer to your query on their website then please contact WA's new hotline for COVID-19 information which is 132 68 43.
Shire of Toodyay Media Release
Library Closure and Update
A Message From The President
Cashless Payment Options
Travel Restrictions and Tourism Services
Closure of Administration Office
Important Links and Phone Numbers
Department of Health (Healthy WA) - the latest information about COVID clinics, symptoms, advice about self-isolating, etc.
WA State Government - includes links to information like the latest news, advice for communities, health professionals, businesses plus much more
Communications from the Prime Minister - information at a more Australia wide level
The phone number for the Australia wide Coronavirus Health Information Line is 1800 020 080
WA Hotline for COVID-19 related information. Call 132 68 43.
Toodyay Community Care
The Toodyay Community Care Group have come together to support those in our community who require some support during this unsettling time while we all deal with Corona Virus. The support of this group and its volunteers is available to anyone living within the Toodyay District – we just need to know what it is you need, so please don’t hesitate to ask, READ MORE
Media Statements
Department of Health
WA.gov.au
Toodyay Community Care
Library Closure and Update
A Message from The Red Cross
Travel Restrictions and Tourism Services
Cashless payment
A Message from the President
Frequently asked questions
Keeping Mentally Well Resource Booklet
Government Support COVID-19
Support Services Flyer
Wheatbelt Collated COVID-19 Resources Links and Support
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