In the face of the escalating coronavirus pandemic, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a ban on all non-essential indoor gatherings of more than 100 people.
A blanket “do not travel” ban has also been placed on all Australians for overseas travel, but for now, schools across the country remain open.
“Do not go overseas – that is a very clear instruction,” Morrison said.
“For those of you thinking about going overseas for the school holidays, don’t. Don’t go overseas.”
Earlier, Virgin had already announced it would suspend all international flights between March 30 and mid-June.
The government confirmed on Wednesday it will throw a $715 million lifeline to the crippled Australian airline industry, by waiving domestic fees.
The new rules, announced on Wednesday, will place massive restrictions on the way pubs, cinemas and restaurants will operate and could force many small businesses to close altogether.
Weddings and funerals across the country will also be significantly impacted by the new laws.
Morrison said there would be no short-term, quick fix to deal with the COVID-19 crisis in Australia, and warned that “tens of thousands of jobs” could be lost.
And he had a strong message to Australians refusing to refrain from panic buying.
“Stop hoarding,” Morrison said.
“I can’t be more blunt about it. Stop it.
“It is not sensible, it is not helpful and it has been one of the most disappointing things I have seen in Australian behaviour in response to this crisis.
“That is not who we are as a people. It is not necessary. It is not something that people should be doing.”
Schools will remain open following “clear and crystal advice” from health experts, he said.
”Please know this – whatever we do, we have to do for at least six months.
“The disruption that would occur from the closure of schools around this country, make no mistake, would be severe.”
‘Please know this – whatever we do, we have to do for at least six months.’
Morrison called on parents to take their example from him and his wife Jenny.
“I am telling you that, as a father, I’m happy for my kids to go to school.
“There is only one reason your kids shouldn’t be going to school, and that is if they are unwell.”