Calls to increase patron numbers in NSW pubs

As NSW records its second day of no new COVID cases, the push is on to allow the number of patrons in the states’ pubs and clubs to double. 

The industry is calling for current restrictions to ease, so as to allow one person per two square metres. Current restrictions only allow one person per four square metres.

This restriction has been in place since May and since it was brought in, food and beverage sales have been down 60 per cent.

On Monday, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said more needed to be done before any substantial changes could be made.  

“Let's not get ahead of ourselves after a few days of zero cases,' Ms Berejiklian said.

“We already eased some restrictions last week and are going as fast as we can to help businesses, the economy, and jobs, but we need to make sure we do it at the right pace.”  

Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres and Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello and other Government ministers have had discussions on easing patron rules with industry groups.

NSW Racing boss and rugby league chairman, Peter V'landys said considering the low numbers of COVID cases, he expected the state would ease restrictions.

V'landys told the Daily Telegraph, “There is no way Gladys Berejiklian or the NSW Government is going to let Queensland out-do them. Surely whatever Queensland can do, we can do. 

'We can't call to open borders in one breath but constrain our own economy at the same time.”

The Australian Hotels Association said 15,000 new jobs could become available in the hospitality sector if an increase in customer numbers is permitted.