NSW pubs, theatres and places of worship say ‘freedom day’ will be their biggest lifeline in months

Pubs, theatres and places of worship all agree — next week’s “freedom day” in NSW will be the best Christmas present they could wish for.

On Wednesday Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced major changes to COVID-19 restrictions would come into effect from next Monday, with the 4-square-metre rule replaced with the 2-square-metre rule at all venues except for gyms and nightclubs.

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said millions would be injected into the economy and many people would be back in jobs after “freedom day” on December 7.

For Solotel, who own dozens of Sydney pubs like the Bank Hotel, the Kings Cross Hotel and the Albion Hotel, the future suddenly looks a lot less grim.

CEO Justine Baker said many venues which have been relying on…