COVID 19 Updates

The following statement is made on 21 March 2020 at 12.00pm

Dear Members,

The COVID-19 crisis continues to evolve at a rapid pace. As of yesterday, Friday 20 March 2020, the Public Health (COVID-19 Mass Gatherings) Order 2020 remains in place and applicable to all aquatic and recreation venues.

We are aware of a number of facilities and operators seeking clarification as to the application of the Order to their venues. The ARI has received advice from NSW Health that swimming and learn-to-swim programs are not considered essential activities and are not exempt from the aforementioned Order.

Penalties apply for organisations that fail to comply with the Public Health (COVID-19 Mass Gatherings) Order 2020.

Further measures announced by the Prime Minister on Friday 20 March 2020 mean venues must ensure:

• no more than 500 or more persons in a single undivided outdoor space at the same time, or
• no more than 100 or more persons in a single undivided indoor space at the same time, and
• no more than 1 person per four square metres.

Facilities should also ensure that:

• spaces at each facility, surfaces and objects are regularly cleaned with disinfectant
• provide hand washing guidance
• promote regular and thorough hand washing by staff and participants
• provide sanitising hand rub dispensers in prominent places around the venue (particularly entry or high use areas such as a registration desk, change rooms, toilets or kiosk)
• make sure dispensers are regularly refilled
  promote exclusion of ill persons

Keep us informed as to the current operational status of your venue

The ARI is currently seeking information from operators as to the impact on venues during this time. We are asking venues to update the status of their venue via our web pages as the situation evolves:
http://arinsw.com.au/keep-us-informed-as-to-the-status-of-your-venue/

The form only takes a minute with more than 60 facilities having already advised of their current operational status.

The ARI Board is currently meeting every day via teleconference to review the latest information provided and monitor developments as they unfold across industry. If you have any queries, concerns or suggestions please reach out to the ARI.

This is a time of uncertainty for all Australians and our industry is being deeply impacted by COVID-19. Over recent days we have spoken to many of our Members and are greatly encouraged by the tenacity, compassion and support being shown. Please take time to check in with yourself and your colleagues.

The situation continues to change rapidly. Please continue to follow the current advice from NSW Health: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/diseases/Pages/coronavirus.aspx