Some Australian arcades are beginning to reopen to players. The picture varies from one state to another as each can impose its own restrictions on venues.
In Victoria, for example, pubs and arcades can reopen with 20 maximum guests and other social-distancing rules, from June 1. On June 21, the capacity can be increased to 50 people.
Zak Athanasiadis, supplier and operator, who has arcades in Victoria under Zax Amusements, expressed relief that at least a partial return to normality would come next week, adding that the rules also applies to outdoor amusement parks, drive-in movies and other attractions.
National trade association president Tony Argery explained that in most instances the arcades business would reopen alongside the cinemas. In July that means (in his own state of Queensland) as many as 100 people at a time.
He said: “From June 23 smaller locations can open, but with only a maximum of 20 people, which is the general rule in other states.”
In New South Wales a similar picture has emerged with up to 50 allowed in restaurants, bar, pubs and cafes from June 1. In South Australia cinemas (and therefore arcades) can reopen with 20 people from June1 and pubs can reopen too. The Northern Territory will permit bars and clubs to operate from June 5 and ‘entertainment venues and cinemas’ can reopen in approved configuration. All licensed gaming activities will be allowed. Queensland’s pubs, clubs and casinos can offer inside dining from June 12, but no bars or gaming can open. However, cinemas – and therefore arcades – can reopen. Tasmania will permit up to 20 people in restaurants and cinemas from June 15 and from July 13, bars, night clubs, casinos and gaming can return. Western Australia will permit reopening of hospitality, sports and recreation businesses provide an official Covid Safety Plan is completed.
