The lockdown has undoubtedly been – and still is – a tough time for many of us and in ways that have never happened before. 

Thankfully, the COVID-19 restrictions did a lot of good for the country. From a peak of 460 new cases on March 28, we're down to fewer than 20 infections per day.

South Australia and Northern Territory have not had a single new case for weeks now, and Queensland has started seeing zero daily rate infection since Monday last week. In Western Australia, there were days last week when they reported no new infections. 

So, what does this mean for Australians? 

Can we now go for a drive?

Being able to get out and drive – other than to buy food and essentials – suddenly feels like an all-important expression of freedom. We used to take that for granted, but now it’s a big deal! The general rule is still the same – observe social distancing and stay at home as much as possible. The specific answer to whether you can go for a drive varies depending on where you live. 

• New South Wales – travel restrictions are still in place.
• Victoria – only essential travels are permitted, so driving just for the heck of it is a no go. Taking on a passenger who does not belong in your household is also discouraged.
• Queensland – it’s okay to drive within 50 km from your home and go outdoors with people living with you. A person who doesn’t live with you may join your activity, but that’s the max. 
• Western Australia – you may go for a drive but remember to keep within the state boundaries. You can even go to the beach, hang out with friends, just make sure to observe 1.5-metre distancing and there should be no more than ten people congregating. 
• South Australia – non-essential travel is discouraged, but there are no travel restrictions within the state.
• Tasmania – travel restrictions are still in place, although driving lessons are allowed.
• Australian Capital Territory – travelling within the territory and to NSW to visit family or friends is now allowed. However, remember that the NSW is still implementing stringent restrictions. So, if that’s we’re you’re heading, read up what’s allowed there.
• Northern Territory – you may now do some recreational activities, including boating, sailing, exercising, and fishing. Beauty parlours and similar establishments are also allowed to open, and more importantly, there is no prohibition on driving to these places.

Are we now allowed to visit other households or accept visitors?

In most areas, you may now leave your home more and do so for recreational purposes. However, it’s not the signal for holidaying yet. People are still encouraged to stay at home and refrain from unnecessary social encounters. The number of people that constitutes a social gathering also depends on the state or territory where you live.

• NSW – gathering in a public place is still limited to two people. Visiting another home is allowed but limited to two visiting adults and their dependent children. There are other exemptions, such as the limit to people attending a wedding is five and attending a funeral is 10. People in a public area must maintain a 4-square-metre space or 1.5 metres away from other people. 
• VIC – you may only drive to another household if you’re providing care or support to the people in that house. Social visits are still very much banned.
• QLD – you may visit family and friends as long as you observe the 2-visitor limit. You must also keep the 1.5-metre distance requirement. 
• WA – social gathering is allowed for ten people at most, so you can drive to a party of not more than 10.
• SA – you may visit someplace where you’re meeting up with more than two people, although you’re encouraged not to. Gatherings are definitely not allowed for more than ten people. Also, you have to observe proper social distancing at all times. 
• TAS – some forms of recreational activities are now permitted for maintaining mental health, but social visits are still banned. A maximum of two people can come to your home to provide care or support, and the 1.5-metre distance applies. 
• ACT – more than two people of the same household may now drive to visit another family for a small dinner party, perhaps, or other outdoor or indoor recreational activities. The two-person limit holds for non-essential activities that involve people from different households.
• NT – visiting and attending an indoor or outdoor gathering is now allowed as long as the 1.5-metre social distancing requirement is strictly observed.

What happens next?

For the last two weeks, the country heaved a sigh of relief as the daily new case rate averaged at less than 20, with April 23 and 27 registering only 8 new infections each. The government is optimistic that this trend continues in its downward direction until a vaccine is produced and the virus is eliminated. The figure yesterday (May 3) was at 18. 

States and territories have allowed more freedom, albeit cautiously. NT plans to reopen restaurants, gyms, and other public places on May 15 and lift all restrictions by June 5. Social distancing will remain to be a byword in every household in the country for the next few years.

Early mark for Australians

In a press conference last week, PM Scott Morrison expressed how well Australia has done in flattening the curve, saying that the people have ‘earned an early mark.’ The Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with the National Cabinet to discuss relaxing the restrictive measures and restarting the economy. He reminded the states and territories that the current crisis is uncharted territory, and it’s only prudent to exercise caution.

Indeed, easing too much too soon could prove risky and costly. Whatever form the new norm would take, we expect that social distancing and hygiene would be its core. The premature dropping of our guards will be tantamount to inviting a second wave, undermining our hard-won success. 

Stay tuned for more updates on COVID-19 in Australia. As you start driving to nearby cities and towns for that much-needed breath of fresh air, make sure that your car is in good shape. Check the kilometres on its odometer and refer to the owner’s manual for scheduled servicing or repairs that require car parts replacement. Inspect the tyres and the levels of fluids. 

Remember that servicing shops and auto parts suppliers are essential services and have not stopped doing business. Still, we encourage you to do contactless and, if possible, online transactions. If looking for sellers, try the find a part tool in our website! It’s the safest and most convenient way to shop!

By JMSL