Survey shows how lockdown has affected Australians' relationships

With some Australian states recording single-figure new coronavirus cases overnight — zero, in some cases — people are beginning to look forward to returning to 'normal' life post-lockdown.

Yet for some Australians who have been self-isolating with their partner, the extra strain the situation has put on their relationship means it may never be the same again.

According to a survey conducted by Nine.com.au, 26 per cent of participants who have been in a relationship during 'lockdown' say their relationship has changed.

Only five per cent reported a negative impact, while 14 per cent reported their relationship being stronger than ever.

The most outstanding result in the survey, however, was the number of people who reported no change in their relationship at all — perhaps a reflection of the relatively low-level rules imposed by the Australian government as compared to other countries.

A previous survey by Nine.com.au in March showed 47 per cent of participants weren't working from home. So aside from having no opportunities to leave the house for entertainment, meals and other recreational activities, many Australians were living a relatively normal life.

While the survey results are mostly good news, one per cent respondents said their relationships had failed as a result of the COVID-19 movement restrictions

Last week, the government released a three-step plan for relieving the restrictions, which will be implemented by each states premier when they deem fit.

Step one essentially covers all businesses, activities and social gatherings with a 10-person limit, step two is a 20-person limit and step three is a 100 person limit.

The Northern Territory has had almost no new cases for weeks, so they'll likely get to step three far before New South Wales will, which has had the most cases nationally.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that as of Friday May 15, New South Wales will be able to open restaurants and parks with up to 10 people seated. The plan will open up 850,000 new jobs nationally.