Coronavirus: The Australian region planning to re-open businesses as it moves to 'new normal'
Yahoo News Australia's Life After Lockdown series investigates what life will be like after coronavirus restrictions.
The Northern Territory is looking to re-open businesses in a roadmap to a “new normal” after going three weeks without a new coronavirus case while Territorians abide by tough restrictions.
Chief Minister Michael Gunner announced on Monday the first step in easing restrictions in the Northern Territory.
It comes as Western Australia and Queensland have also outlined their plans to rollback restrictions.
The Territory, which has 28 coronavirus sufferers, has not had an increase in cases since April 6.
Mr Gunner said he’s meeting with the chamber of commerce and more announcements would be made in a “roadmap” on Thursday.
However, he didn’t elaborate on what businesses these were but it is possible he was referring to non-essential ones like bars, restaurants and gyms.
But if the top end did move to re-open such venues they would be the first in Australia.
What’s certain though is the NT’s borders “will be the last thing to open”.
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The NT News understands as businesses re-open they’ll have to adhere to strict cleaning and limit the amount of people inside.
Testing and tracking will also reportedly be ramped up with the NT Government to push for people to download the federal government’s coronavirus tracking app.
The NT is moving towards what its government calls the ‘new normal’.
“A new way of living while we wait for a vaccine,” Mr Gunner said.
“There will be the Territory lifestyle we know and love.
“The sunsets will be just as stunning, the beers just as cold, and the laksas just as spicy, but all while keeping our distance, hanging out in smaller groups and washing our hands.”
Mr Gunner also announced a number of the territory’s parks and reserves will reopen from noon on Friday with visitors able to camp and swim in them once again.
The parks set to reopen include Litchfield National Park, Berry Springs, Joe Creek and John Flynn Historical Reserve among others.
However, visits will be limited to people who live near them and parks run by the Federal Government will remain under their jurisdiction.
He cautioned “strict rules will apply”. He added he will clarify who people will be able to travel to parks with on Thursday.
“Don’t gather in large groups, practise proper hygiene - all the things that you’re already doing,” Mr Gunner said.
“This is the first significant step we are taking to adjust our coronavirus restrictions in a steady and staged process.”
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