WHAT:  The Toluna and Harris Interactive COVID-19 Barometer is a bi-weekly index that taps into a community panel of 30+ million members providing accurate and timely information on the world’s perceptions regarding the Coronavirus. The latest research surveyed 1096 respondents in Australia.

KEY FINDINGS:

With the daily rate of new infections plummeting and restrictions lifting, life in Australia is starting to return to normal. However, new research by Toluna and Harris Interactive reveals that Australians are bracing for a second wave, and plan to go out less than they did pre-pandemic.

Australians more likely to visit bars and restaurants that implement health and safety measures 

Despite restrictions easing, Australians are cautious about their activities over the coming months, with many respondents stating they plan to spend less time frequenting bars, restaurants and cinemas than they did before the crisis.

Over the next 1-2 months Australians plan to spend less time eating out (26%), going to bars (23%), going to movie cinemas (24%), and watching live sports matches (18%). One out of five (20%) stated they’d prefer to hold off going out altogether until the pandemic has passed or a vaccine has been found.

However, many would be more likely to visit venues that implemented the following health precautions:

• 47% want venues to limit numbers through social distancing
• 48% would be more likely to visit venues which provided hand sanitiser and masks
• 43% would like venues to temperature check patrons to allow entry
• 33% would like to see Perspex screens between people, where possible

Worried about a 2^nd wave

As winter hits, nearly half (49%) of Australians surveyed said they’re more concerned about a 2^nd wave of COVID-19 than an economic downturn; compared with 42% who were more worried about the economy. A carefree 9% weren’t concerned about either. 

Australians are prepared to do it all again

If a second wave were to hit, Australians said they’d be prepared to go into lockdown again with a massive 43% saying they could cope with lockdowns that lasted longer than 12 weeks. 14% could only cope with lockdowns of up to 4 weeks, 22% could manage another lockdown for 5-8 weeks, with 12% ok to spend another 9-12 weeks in isolation, should we be faced with a second wave.

Toluna Analysis

“It’s clear that Australians have faith that social distancing measures put in place have been successful in curbing COVID-19 in the country, so entertainment and hospitality venues need to take this seriously. Australians want to go out and support their local bars, clubs and restaurants, but they’re looking to venues to take the lead when it comes to implementing health and safety precautions.” Said Stephen Walker, Business Director, Toluna, Australia & New Zealand.