The State Government of Western Australia have released Guidelines, an Event Plan and formal approval process for events of more than 500 people occurring during Phase 4 COVID restrictions.
Prior to release of the guidelines, information regarding large scale live music events was limited to major sport and entertainment centres and application of the 2 square metre rule for indoor venue capacity. The new guidelines allow for large scale events, including music festivals, to return whilst providing much-needed clarity on the impact of Phase 4 restrictions and streamlined approval process.
From Friday 25 September 2020, all events of more than 500 people will require approval from the local government authority through submission of a COVID Event Plan informed by the released Guidelines. The plan outlines the measures the organiser will undertake to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, customised to the event and it’s individual risk factors. Events deemed high risk will also require review from the Department of Health prior to receiving approval to run.
In response to music festivals, the State Government advises all festivals will be assessed on a case-by case basis, noting they will likely fall into the high risk category requiring further review by the Department of Health. Stages, mosh pits and dance floors are noted to increase the risk due to potential difficulties maintaining social distancing, requiring additional safety measures such as a COVID Safety Marshal or seating to help mitigate. However, if the strategies are deemed sufficient, approval will be granted and music are able to occur with their COVID Event Plan in place.
When reviewing applications, the below public health principles will be taken into account:
– Anticipated crowd size
– Nature and duration of contact between patrons
– Ability to maintain distancing between patrons
– Loud volume speech, chanting, sheering or singing
– Event venue
– Contact tracing
– Alcohol / Drugs
– Predominant patron demographic
– Shared equipment/high touchpoints
Release of the guidelines present hope that longer duration live music events and festivals can return with WA artists and bands over the coming months.
You can check out the full set of guidelines, Event Plan and FAQ via the WA Government website below:
COVID-19 PHASE 4 EVENTS INFORMATION HERE
COVID EVENT GUIDELINES HERE
COVID EVENT PLAN HERE
COVID EVENT PLAN FAQ HERE
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