Update on coronavirus measures

30 March 2020

In the Federal Government announcements last night, and subsequently this afternoon, further social distancing measures were announced to slow the spread of COVID-19.

National Cabinet agreed to limit both indoor and outdoor gatherings to two persons only. Exceptions to this limit include:

  • People of the same household going out together;
  • Funerals - a maximum of 10 people;
  • Wedding - a maximum of 5 people;
  • Family units;

Private house inspections are now limited to 1 agent + 1 purchaser OR 1 agent + 1 couple (who must be currently living together).  

National Cabinet also announced a moratorium on evictions over the next six months for commercial and residential tenancies in financial distress who are unable to meet their commitments due to the impact of coronavirus.

This afternoon, the Federal Government announced that the $1500 per fortnight Jobkeeper payment will be paid out to eligible employers and employees at the end of April which means employers who are able to, can begin rolling out payments immediately to their staff. This in turn will help tenants avoid defaulting on their rental payments.

We understand there is confusion about which way to proceed in these trying circumstances, so we are seeking further clarity on the content of these new restrictions in order to assist you as quickly as possible so that you can continue to conduct your businesses.

An update will be issued as soon as we are in a position to provide further advice and guidance as to how businesses are allowed to operate within these new restrictions.

We thank you for your patience at this difficult time.