Freedom day: New rules as retail stores finally reopen in NSW

Pub beers and hair cuts are back on and retail stores will reopen on Monday after NSW achieved its 70 per cent double dose vaccination milestone.

New freedoms were four months in the making after Sydney and parts of NSW were plunged into lockdown in June when the Delta strain took hold.

“There is a sense of optimism out there with thousands of businesses across the state busy preparing to open their doors tomorrow. NSW you’ve earned this,” NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said on Sunday.

“As we re-open after more than 100 days we ask everyone to treat staff with kindness and respect when they ask you to check-in or see your vaccination certificate.”

Fully vaccinated residents can take advantage of several new freedoms from Monday, including retail shopping with stores to reopen to double-jabbed customers.

But there are several rules in place including density limits, mandatory masks and QR codes.

Here’s a guide to what consumers need to know.

KMART

Kmart opened its doors on Monday morning.

Customers are required to abide by several rules including mask wearing and checking in using a QR code.

Kmart CEO John Gualtieri earlier announced stores would reopen after the 70 per cent milestone was achieved.

“Thanks to the incredible vaccine efforts across the state, we're finally able to return to some sort of normality,” he said.

“And like most businesses, we‘re ecstatic to be reopening our doors on Monday 11th October.”

He said there would also be customer limits in stores and shoppers would need to show proof of their vaccination.

“We ask for your patience and support as we roll this new process out across our store network,” he said.

MYER

Myer reopens Monday with a number of safety measures in place.

Vaccinated customers arriving at any NSW store will need to check-in, provide proof of their vaccination or a medical certificate if they are exempt.

“Please note that all stores require proof of double vaccination,” a statement on the website reads.

Those unable to meet that criteria are advised to shop online and either opt for delivery or get someone who is vaccinated to pick up their order.

Masks are also required, in line with government requirements.

BIG W

Similar measures are in place at Big W.

The retail giant said it was “busily” preparing to welcome people back, but only those were vaccinated.

“Please be patient and understanding with our team in store as they follow the NSW Government’s Public Health Order,” a spokesman said.

Masks are mandatory and the store is restricted to one person per 4 sqm.

BUNNINGS

Bunnings reopened to customers after the state achieved the 70 per cent first dose milestone though strict density limits applied and masks were required.

It falls under the ‘critical retail’ banner meaning customers are not required to be vaccinated.

“The community can be assured that our strong Covid-safe protocols remain in place across our NSW store network, including physical distancing measures, mandatory face masks and QR code sign in, security at all stores to help monitor compliance and the capping of customer numbers at a one per 10 metre density limit,” a spokesman said.

“Since the start of the pandemic, the safety of our team and customers has been at the core of everything we do and we continue to follow government guidance in all the states and territories where we operate.”

Masks are mandatory and so is the QR code check-in.

CRITICAL RETAIL – WOOLWORTHS, ALDI & COLES

All supermarkets are considered essential services and were open even during the height of the pandemic.

Though, unlike other non-critical retailers, anyone can shop there, including those who are unvaccinated.

“Anyone aged 16 or over will need to be fully vaccinated (or have an exemption) to enter most venues including hospitality venues, non-critical retail stores, personal services, sporting, recreation and entertainment facilities and events,” NSW Heath said.

“Critical retail such as supermarkets or pharmacies will still be accessible for people who are not fully vaccinated.

“Penalties may apply for making or presenting a fake form of proof of vaccination.”