December 7: put it in your diary as the day the state takes a major step towards normalcy. Premier Gladys Berejiklian today announced coronavirus restrictions will ease again from Monday.

Except for gyms and nightclubs, all indoor venues (including restaurants, cafes and bars) will be allowed one patron per two square metres indoors and outdoors, rather than the current four. This will double capacities. Punters at pubs will also be allowed to drink while standing outdoors (but not indoors). Previously, all patrons had to be seated.

Live music and other indoor gigs will be allowed to operate at 75 per cent capacity, and outdoor gigs and sporting events can return to 100 per cent capacity, capped at 5000 people.

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Outdoor private gatherings such as picnics and birthday parties will be capped at 100 people (up from 50), while guest numbers at weddings and funerals will be uncapped. Up to 50 people will be allowed on dance floors at weddings.

“What we’ve tried to achieve here is a healthy balance of giving people freedom and allowing businesses to flourish, while also maintaining those basic principles of living in a Covid-safe way,” Berejiklian said.

For the most up-to-date information on Covid-19 restrictions in NSW, visit NSW Health.