Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has urged all non-essential gatherings over 500 people to cancel from Monday 16 March, due to the Coronavirus outbreak.
Businesses now have to figure out a way to conduct smaller meetings in place of larger conventions and conferences, so they can continue to operate during the crisis.
On 3 March, the World Health Organisation (WHO) released a recommendation document for event organisers, which says events should be kept to a smaller size to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Notably, neither the WHO document or the PM’s ban mention cancelling smaller events or meetings.
In fact, in Morrison said churches with large followings should add extra services to keep numbers down—the same logic could also apply to events.
The PM is also urging Australians to restrict their overseas travel.
“We now advise all Australians to reconsider your need to travel overseas at this time, regardless of your destination, age or health,” Mr Morrison said.
“If your travel is not essential, consider carefully whether now is the right time.”
