South Australia is set to implement a new 2sqm rule from 29 June.
The announcement means venues such as restaurants, cafes, pubs and clubs will no longer have capped numbers, with patron limits instead determined by space.
“South Australia continues to have an excellent record,” said South Australian Premier Steven Marshall. “We have not had a case in South Australia for an extended period of time and that only happens if everybody stays vigilant.”
The state joins Western Australia, which will loosen restrictions from 27 June. Gathering limits will only be determined by the 2sqm rule and alcohol can also be served as part of unseated service arrangements among other steps.
Victoria wound back plans to increase diner numbers to 50 over the weekend, instead remaining at 20 after a spike in COVID-19 cases.
Tasmania will join SA and WA with the 2sqm rule from Friday, while New South Wales continues with 50 diners.
In Queensland, dining in or seated drinks in restaurants, cafés, pubs, registered or licensed clubs, RSL Clubs, hotels and casinos (no gaming) are restricted to 20 patrons per room or per defined area.
The Australian Capital Territory has limits of 100 patrons per indoor or outdoor space in cafes, restaurants and licensed venues in line with the 4sqm rule.
Image credit: The Adelaide Review