Retail reopens in the ACT as 24 new COVID-19 cases recorded

Canberra retail shops have opened their doors to customers for the first weekend of trade since the ACT's lockdown started in mid-August.

Two cyclists ride through Commonwealth Park on the first day of easing of COVID restrictions in Canberra on 15 October 15.

Canberrans have enjoyed an easing of restrictions as the territory recorded 24 new cases today. Source: AAP

The ACT has recorded a further 24 COVID-19 infections, bringing its active caseload to 400.

Of those, 19 are in Canberra hospitals including a dozen in intensive care and four among those requiring ventilation.

Health officials say the territory conducted 1445 tests in the 24 hours to Friday evening.

Meanwhile, Canberra retail shops have opened their doors to customers for the first weekend of trade since the ACT's lockdown started in mid-August.

Density limits of one person per four square metres still apply.

The ACT is also set to eclipse the 85 per cent double-dose threshold for its eligible population on Saturday.

The Business Council says vaccination milestones are creating momentum and restoring confidence.

Chief executive Jennifer Westacott says recent announcements around quarantine-free international arrivals will also allow businesses to grow as demand increases.

More restrictions in the ACT are due to ease on 29 October and the territory will open to NSW and Victoria on 1 November.

The territory recorded 13 cases of COVID-19 on Friday.


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Published 23 October 2021 1:49pm
Source: AAP, SBS


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