Is it safe to have your adult children over this Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is usually celebrated with family outings to trendy breakfast spots or big family get-togethers in homes. But celebrations may be a little different this year. The good news, however, is that some social distancing restrictions have been relaxed in certain states and territories.

Although it’s important to remember that older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions are at higher risk of developing a severe case of Covid-19 — so maintaining a safe distance is still best practice. Here are the visitation rules for each state:

Queensland

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced on Thursday that up to five people from a family may visit another household. However, social distancing measures still apply — so perhaps no hugs and kisses for now. The 50-kilometre travel limit is also lifted for household visits, provided your guests don’t travel into the broader community. The eased restrictions start on Sunday.

New South Wales

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced on Thursday social distancing restrictions will remain in place over the weekend, even if the national cabinet announces changes to guidelines on Friday. As it stands, two adults and their children can visit another household.

“Please know that two adults and children can visit any mother at any one time and a mother can accept multiple visits a day so long as there are not too many people for each visit,” she said. “I think all of us will be able to enjoy Mother’s Day much more than had it happened a month ago.”

Victoria

Premier Daniel Andrews has made it clear social distancing measures will stay in place until Victoria’s state of emergency ends on Monday, May 11. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Andrews went as far as to say he would not be visiting his own mother on Sunday.

“I can tell you what I will be doing on Mother’s Day, I will not be visiting my mum,” he said. “She is in good health but has underlying health issues. I just wouldn’t do it. These are unprecedented times.”

Social visits to other households are still banned, and Victorians can only leave their homes for essential shopping, to exercise, for medical, care, or compassionate needs, as well as to work and study.

South Australia

Mothers in South Australia will be free to have visitors over this Sunday so long as they keep a distance of 1.5 metres. As it stands, up to 10 people are allowed at gatherings both inside and outside.

Western Australia

Good news for mothers in Western Australia, as you can have gatherings of up to 10 people. Recreational activities like picnics, boating, hiking and camping are also now allowed.

Northern Territory

There are no limits on gatherings indoors or outdoors in the Northern Territory as long as social distancing guidelines are followed.

“Everyone needs to consider their personal and community responsibility when socialising with family and friends,” the state government advises. “Health experts suggest gatherings of people should be kept to smaller numbers. Ensure your backyard allows for 1.5m between people and hygiene principles are followed.”

Tasmania

Only two visitors are permitted inside a home at any one time, however, these visits are only for compassionate care or social support. While a state-wide ban on nursing home visits will remain in place for Mother’s Day, but will be lifted on Monday.

“I think the best Mother’s Day present that anybody could provide their mother is to keep them safe,” Premier Peter Gutwein said on Thursday.

Australia Capital Territory

In the ACT, two adults and their children can visit another household, so long as social distancing is maintained. There’s still a two-person cap on outdoor gatherings if the people do not live together.