Stressing that states and territories are able to move between the steps on the pathway at different times, the PM Scott Morrison set out a plan that is intended to push the economy towards an upward trajectory.
Step one is focused on carefully reopening the economy, and giving Australians opportunities to return to work and social activities, including gatherings of up to 10 people, up to five visitors in the family home and some local and regional travel.
Under this step, the government will permit the reopening of restaurants and cafes but with a 10-person limit, as well as libraries, community centres and playgrounds.
At this initial stage of the process, 250,000 people are expected to return to work, generating $3.1 billion economic activity per month.
Step two enables gatherings of up to 20 people and is likely to include more retailers being open, along with gyms, beauty parlours, cinemas, galleries, amusement parks and caravan and camping grounds and some interstate travel.
The PM’s forecast predicts stage two will see a further 275,000 back at work, generating $3 billion economic activity per month.
Step three enables gatherings of up to 100 people. The likely return to work for most workers, a resumption of interstate travel and the opening of pubs and clubs, is expected to generate another $3.3 billion in economic activity.
The PM noted that the national cabinet will take a stock of the progress every three weeks.
“We will be closely monitoring the situation as restrictions are eased. This will enable us to assess the impact of changes, track progress against our agreed precedent conditions, determine the pace of moving through the steps, and make any further decisions,” the PM said.
He explained that while Australia is prepared for an increase in case numbers or possible outbreaks, a “relapse should not be an option”.
“A second wave is not something we can afford to go through. The cost to our people, our economy, our social fabric, is too high. We should look to build success in each step, and move forward safely and with confidence.”
