SYDNEY, May 11 (Xinhua) -- Australian States announced plans to further ease COVID-19 restrictions on Monday, however leaders warned the public not to become complacent and risk causing a second wave of infections.
With just 12 new cases reported on Monday morning -- taking the national total to less than 7,000 -- restrictions on outdoor activities and social interaction were in the process of being gradually removed, in line with the national cabinet's three step plan.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison noted that while getting the economy functioning again was paramount, it was still very early days in the process.
"The virus is still out there - it hasn't gone anywhere. Australians have to remain on their guard," Morrision said.
The majority of states recorded no fresh cases on Monday, prompting leaders to introduce new relaxed regulations allowing people to venture outside for more leisure activities including overnight camping and regional trips.
Hospitality services such as cafes and restaurants will also reopen for eat-in services although there will be strict limits on the number of people allowed within an enclosed area.
New South Wales State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that she would be easing restrictions from later in the week, despite a 17th death being recorded at Sydney aged care home, Newmarch House, which is at the centre of the country's second largest outbreak.
In the State of Victoria , Premier Daniel Andrews announced that up to five adults would be allowed to visit friends and family in separate households and outdoor activities such as golf, hiking or fishing in groups of up to ten people will be permitted.
However, he urged restraint and common sense by Australians and said that they should use the additional freedom to sensibly revisit loved ones and activities they have missed during lockdown.
"Although these are our first steps back towards normalcy - they are not an invitation to host a dinner party every night of the week. This is about seeing those you need to - if you need to," Andrews said. Enditem
