From Friday, May 1st, social distancing restrictions are set to be relaxed in New South Wales. These revised restrictions will allow two adults to visit another household.

“We know for many people they’ve been cooped up in their homes for a number of weeks,” Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced. “We want people to feel less isolated.

“We want better mental health but we also know that that comes with risks but I have inherent faith in the people of New South Wales that people will act responsibly.”

The relaxed restrictions will allow families to take their young children with them during these visits.

“This isn’t a licence to go wild and have parties but it is a licence to be socially responsible and accept that the government is easing this restriction and to provide less social isolation and better mental health for everybody,” The Premier added. “It is being able to go into someone’s house to support them.”

Berejijklian emphasised the importance of practising social distance if you are elderly, or are showing even mild symptoms of illness.

“But I do want to stress that if you’re visiting someone who’s over 70 years of age or someone with a co-morbidity, you have to practice really good social distancing,” she said. “If you have the mildest sniffle, do not go and visit anybody. If you’re feeling slightly unwell or fatigued, please do not risk it.”

So there you have it folks. Friday evening Zoom drinks may transcend to an actual dinner with your friends. I know I’ll be getting my nearest and dearest on the dog and bone and allocating bruschetta and burrata salad duties in anticipation for what is going to be a glorious reunion. It’s something to look forward to, start planning your menu, splash out on a bottle of wine that isn’t a bin end.

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