Retail stores across Australia can reopen provided they have implemented COVID-safe practices, under the Federal Government's three-step plan for a COVID-safe Australia.
The news follows announcements by retailers such as Accent Group, Mosaic Brands and Myer to reopen stores across the country.
The three-stage recovery plan announced by the government on May 8 stipulates that throughout the stages, Australians must ensure that they're still maintaining good hygeine, keeping 1.5 metre distance from one another and staying home if unwell.
In a statement, the Morrison Government said that businesses need to take time to develop a COVID-safe reopening plan.
"We are confidently and cautiously taking the first step to lifting restrictions.
"Our success so far means we have slowed the spread of COVID-19 and built the capacity in our health system to manage the impact of the virus.
"For businesses, this means taking the time to prepare and develop a plan to operate in a COVID-safe way to protect their customers and workers.
"With every one of us playing our part, we should all feel safe and confident in leaving the house and starting to do some of the things we've missed in the last few months – like getting back to work, having a quick bite in a restaurant or cafe, attending auctions and open houses, and participating in group exercise."
Agreed on by the National Cabinet, the steps will be introduced by the States at different times, depending on local conditions.
Treasury estimates these steps could see around 850,000 jobs restored in the months ahead.
National Cabinet will review the steps every three weeks.
A detailed plan of the steps is below:
