What You Can and Can’t Do Across Australia This Mother’s Day Weekend

Here’s what you need to know.

Australia has been successfully flattening the coronavirus curve, with the growth in new COVID-19 cases slowing across the country. In fact, some states like Western Australia have already started easing their coronavirus restrictions.

During a press conference earlier today, Prime Minister Scott Morrison outlined a three-stage plan to guide Australia out of coronavirus shutdowns. Mr Morrison also urged people to download the government's COVIDSafe app.

Our 3 step roadmap to a COVIDSafe Australia with our aim to get through these steps and get Australia working again in July this year.

States and territories will set their own pace and decide the timings for each step.#covidsafe #COVID19Aus #coronavirusaustralia pic.twitter.com/qRGq8SJWZp
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) May 8, 2020

However, not all states and territories are in the same position to peel back restrictions, with some still recording more cases than others. So, COVID-19 restrictions will continue to vary.

Given that restrictions are different in each state and territory, you might be feeling a tad confused about what you can actually do this Mother's Day.

To clear it up: Here's what activities you'll be able to get up to over the weekend, depending on which state or territory you're in.

It's important to note that you'll need to practice social distancing regardless of which state or territory you live in. That means no hugging, and keeping 1.5 metres apart.

New South Wales

If you're in New South Wales, up to two adults and the children in their care can visit another person's home at any time. Basically, you can definitely visit your mum on Mother's Day.

There's also no limit on travel distances in NSW, so you can head to regional areas if your mother lives out of town.

Queensland

Queensland is the only state to have lifted restrictions beginning from Mother's Day. Up to five people who live together will be allowed to visit another household from Sunday onwards.

Additionally, the 50-kilometre travel limit is also being lifted. In saying that, Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Jeanette Young said you should simply visit the residence, without heading to any shopping centres or beaches.

"But you can't go out into that community. You can only go to that residence, visit there, and leave," Dr Young said.

Victoria

Unless you live with your mum, it looks like you'll be forced to catch up virtually this Mother's Day. At this stage, no social visits are allowed in Victoria with tight lockdown measures still in place.

Except, you can visit others to deliver food, provide medical care, or for compassionate reasons.

If you do head out for social reasons, there's a chance you could cop a hefty fine. So, it's probably better to play a game with your mum via video chat instead.

Western Australia

Western Australia recorded one new coronavirus case overnight, but prior to that the state hadn't had a confirmed case for more than a week.

With restrictions having eased slightly in WA, groups of up to 10 people are allowed to gather. You can enjoy activities like picnics, fishing and boating, so there are plenty of options to entertain mum on Mother's Day.

Although, travel between the nine WA regions is still not allowed, so if your mum lives out of town you'll need to catch up virtually.

Australian Capital Territory

The Australian Capital Territory continues to record low numbers of COVID-19 cases. ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said a maximum of 10 people could gather inside or outside a home in time for Mother's Day on Sunday.

Except, you won't be able to dine-in at any restaurants or cafes, so you'll want to plan some indoor activities.

Northern Territory

You can go about your business as usual if you're in the Northern Territory this Mother's Day.

While you still shouldn't go hugging anyone, there are no number limits on gatherings indoors or outdoors. Additionally, you should maintain good hygiene and stay 1.5 metres away from one another.

South Australia

If you live in South Australia, you can definitely visit your mum this weekend. Groups of under 10 people are allowed, but there must be enough space to keep 1.5 metres apart.

ℹ️ For South Australian specific COVID-19 information and support, refer to the trusted sources below. ℹ️

Here are the clickable links:https://t.co/H1TsS93vYe https://t.co/RI33GtTx8I https://t.co/QDm7u3QT8I @SAHealth pic.twitter.com/eLgPrV7ceJ
— South Australia Police (@SAPoliceNews) April 14, 2020

Tasmania

In Tasmania, there is a social support allowing two people at a time to visit their loved ones. In public, you can only meet up with those who live in your household, or up to one person from another household.

Essentially, you can meet up with your mum, but it's important you adhere to the restrictions.

There is still a state-wide ban on nursing home visits, which will not be lifted until Monday.

It's vital that Aussies continue to practice good hygiene over the weekend, and protect those who are vulnerable by staying away.

Now, go and think about how you're going to spoil your mum this Mother's Day.

Header Image: Mark Kolbe / Staff / Getty Images News via Getty Images

What You Can and Can’t Do Across Australia This Mother’s Day Weekend