Australia shuts down gyms, pubs, cinemas to halt coronavirus spread

DAVID GRAY / AFP

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Sunday ordered the closure of pubs, places of worship, gyms and cinemas, from midday Monday to combat coronavirus spread.

Restaurants, cafes and catering businesses have been instructed to switch to delivery and take-away services.

The decision comes after many people appeared to disregard health warnings, leading to a rapid rise in cases in the country.

Earlier, Morrison asserted that “too many Australians” are not taking the threat of COVID-19 seriously, with Sydney's beaches including Bondi recording large crowds over the weekend.

So far, the country has recorded 1,315 cases.

Meanwhile, Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory have shut down non-essential services for the next 48 hours.

It comes as the government announced an additional A$66.4 billion ($38.50 billion) as part of a second stimulus package to shelter the economy from the impact of coronavirus.

More from International news

News

  • H.H. Sheikh Mohammed launches annual government challenge

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has launched an annual government challenge that will encourage federal employees to "innovate bold new solutions that create a real impact".

  • UAE to celebrate Flag Day on Tuesday

    The UAE will mark Flag Day at 11:00 am on Tuesday with official celebrations at ministries, government entities, schools, universities, homes and buildings across the country.

  • H.H. Sheikh Mohammed unveils Dubai research campus 'Nad Zabeel'

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of Nad Zabeel, Dubai’s future research, design and innovation campus that aims to attract 30,000 researchers and specialists.