By Mikayla van Loon
An easing of Victoria’s COVID restrictions will come into effect as of 11:59pm tonight.
Victorians can expect a return to a COVIDSafe setting which was witnessed prior to the five day ‘circuit breaker’ lockdown.
This includes masks only being required on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis, in
aged care facilities and in some larger retail settings including, indoor shopping centres, supermarkets, department stores and indoor markets.
Masks are still recommended to be worn in situations where social distancing cannot be maintained, whether indoors or outdoors.
The in-home limit will increase to 30 people per day and outdoor gatherings will increase to 100 people in public spaces.
Public and private sectors can see a return of 75 per cent of workers to the office as of tonight.
For hospitality, beauty services, funerals and weddings, nightclubs and community spaces, the density limit of one person per two square metres will continue to apply.
Gyms are required to remain at one person per four square metres, with indoor classes having a capacity of 50 and outdoor classes a capacity of 100.
Premier Daniel Andrews thanked the Victorian public for their patience and commitment to the lockdown, saying that’s what made today’s announcement possible
“It’s been a hard slog, but Victorians are doing what they do best as we work to beat this virus:
staying the course and looking out for each other,” he said.
Health minister Martin Foley also expressed his gratitude to the public health team for their work and to all Victorians for doing their part.
The State of Emergency has been extended until 15 March 11:59pm so that further directions in response to the pandemic can be made if necessary.
For more information call the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 or visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
