WA COVID restrictions move to Phase 4
Please visit the official WA Government website for the latest information on COVID-19 restrictions.
On 27 June 2020 Western Australia entered into Phase 4 of the Covid Roadmap. Phase 4 is expected to last around 3 weeks to 18 July 2020.
The following changes have occurred:
- All limits on the number of people at gatherings have been removed – gatherings will only be limited by the 2-square meter rule which continues to apply (in venues that can hold over 500 people, the 2sqm rule includes staff);
- The ‘seated service’ requirement at food and licenced premises has been removed – this means food and drink service for standing customers is permitted, including at bars;
- Food and licenced premises no longer need to maintain a record of customers;
- Crown Casino gaming floor may open, however some temporary restrictions are in place such as every second machine being turned off to promote social distancing;
- Gyms may open without staff present, however they must maintain regular cleaning;
- All events, including unseated performances at live music venues, concert halls and bars, are permitted – however large scale, multi-stage music festivals are still prohibited; and
- Major sports and entertainment venues (Optus Stadium, HBF Park and RAC Arena) can host events at 50% capacity.
While restrictions have been largely lifted, the WA Government is still encouraging physical distancing where possible and urging the community to maintain good personal hygiene. Furthermore businesses are still expected to ensure that their COVID Safety Plans are implemented and up to date.
All remaining state restrictions – except the hard border with the eastern states and travel to remote aboriginal communities – are expected to be removed under Phase 5 starting on 18 July 2020. This includes the 2-sqm rule and 50% capacity rule for major venues
The WA Government has not yet put a timeline on Phase 6, which is expected to include reopening of interstate borders. WA Premier Mark McGowan has commented that the hard borders were due to open in August, however this is no longer the case due to the recent rise in cases in Victoria. Mr McGowan has now said that the borders “will only be removed when the Chief Health Officer of Western Australia is confident that the spread of the infection is controlled in the Eastern States. Our position is crystal clear on this”.
Will this have any impact on my court proceedings?
The courts have not released any updates to their COVID procedures since announcing that Supreme and District Court Trials will resume from 20 July 2020.
You can read about the updates to jury trials here. You can also find a summary of each court's COVID procedures here.
Do you have questions?
Andrew Williams Barrister and Solicitor is an experienced criminal lawyer and remains open during these changing times.
If you are concerned about the impact of Covid-19 on you or your loved one’s court matter or are concerned about possible criminal penalties related to Covid-19, contact the Law Offices of Andrew Williams on (08) 9278 2575 or enquire online today.
PLEASE NOTE: The material in this blog post is for informational use only and should not be construed as legal advice. For answers to your questions regarding this or other topics, please contact a professional legal representative.