New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian has announced further easing of coronavirus restrictions, with the state’s museums, art galleries and libraries given the green light to reopen on June 1.
Under the measures, the number of visitors will be limited to allow for the four-square-metres-per-person rule and, like the markers being rolled out on buses, trains and ferries, dots will be used to manage people’s movements. Additionally, galleries and museums will need to implement online ticketing systems, and when library books are returned, they will need to be shelved for a 24-hour quarantine period.
“NSW is home to some of Australia’s best art galleries and museums, and I look forward to them reopening to the public,” Berejiklian said on Tuesday. “Libraries play an important role in our communities, providing a safe place for learning and reading, and I know many will be pleased to see them reopen. I would encourage museums, galleries and libraries to be innovative to ensure strict social distancing is adhered to and good hygiene measures are followed.”
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SIGN UPGroup tours will not be allowed and some venues will introduce specific opening times for high-risk groups, such as people over 70 years of age. Social distancing measures will be put in place, with seating spread out to ensure it meets the 1.5-metre rule.
If a cafe is on the premises, it will have to maintain the same 10-person rule as other dining establishments.
The news comes at the same time as the state’s regional travel restrictions ease. From June 1, NSW residents will also be able to jump in the car or take a plane for a holiday within the state.