HUNTER PUBS HURTING AS HOSPITALITY RESTRICTIONS EXTENDED FOR MONTH

Extended COVID restrictions will prolong what some in the Hunter are calling a ‘shadow lockdown’.

With cafes and pubs quiet, calls are growing louder for government loans or tax breaks to ease the burden.

Until Sunday, 28 February 2022:

• Hospitality venues, including pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes, and nightclubs must follow the one person per two square metre rule indoors;
• Masks are required in all indoor settings (except residences). Masks are strongly encouraged where you cannot maintain a safe distance from others;
• QR code check-ins are compulsory at certain premises, including hospitality venues and retail shops;
• Singing and dancing is not permitted in hospitality venues, entertainment facilities, nightclubs, indoor music festivals and indoor major recreation facilities (except for weddings, performers, instructors and students).