24 Mar 2020

Coronavirus: What will stay open through the lockdown

From Morning Report, 6:12 am on 24 March 2020

There's been some confusion about what constitutes an essential service during the four week lockdown and which shops people will still be able to go.

There's more open than you'd think with there being quite a few jobs and services that people need for a society to still function.

You'll still get mail and courier drivers will still deliver packages - in case you forgot to stock up on books, movies or other stuff to keep you entertained.

But that of course depends on internet businesses continuing to operate. Many will not.

At no point during the lockdown will supermarkets close - but as for dairies around the country it depends on the size of the business if they're providing food to small communities.

If you don't have a car to get your food for the week there's some good news; taxis and ride share services like Uber will continue operating.

If you do have a car you'll still be able to fuel up at a petrol station too.

If the internet is down or you don't have internet banking you'll still be able to go to a cash machine or into a bank to withdraw money.

Rubbish will still be collected - you won't have to suffer any smelly buildup of rubbish bags outside your house like it's a student flat.

Recycling is another issue with some councils stopping that.

As for students - they'll still get their StudyLink payments even with universities closed down.

If you hurt yourself at anytime during the lockdown and need an ambulance or a paramedic they're all still operating - likewise if you commit a crime police are still out on the streets.

It's the same story for the fire service.

They say justice never sleeps - so if you're arrested during the lockdown judges will still be presiding in courts across the country.

As for business, if you own one and are unsure you're allowed to stay open it again boils to what's actually needed.

Accomodation providers for essential workers and people who need to be quarantined are still open.

As are construction workers who are needed to maintain critical infrastructure like plumbing and electricity.

Telecommunications and internet providers, transport companies, food packaging and distribution all fit the bill as "essential" too.

In the health sector; hospitals, and general practitioners will remain open, as will blood donation centres.

What many people will care most about though; if your family pet gets sick, vets are considered an essential service and can stay open.