COVID-19 restrictions to be slightly eased from tomorrow night, state of emergency remains

PREMIER Daniel Andrews has announced a slight loosening of restrictions on people’s movement as the state continues to see to limit the spread of COVID-19.

From 11.59pm tomorrow night, a fifth reason for leaving home will be added with it okay for up to five people to visit family and friends.

“I know this will come as a welcome relief, but I need to be clear. Although these are our first steps back towards normalcy, they are not an invitation to host a dinner party every night of the week,” Mr Andrews said.

“It’s not about having a rotating roster of acquaintances and associates, or your third best friend from primary school, over for a visit. This is about seeing those you need to, if you need to.

“We’re asking Victorians to limit their circle to just family and friends. That means that when we do have outbreaks and positive cases, and we will, we can test and trace and effectively contain the spread.

“I want to be clear: just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.

The move comes after the State government conducted a COVID-19 testing blitz over the last two weeks, testing more that 150,000 people.

However, the current state of emergency order will remain in place until at least 31 May.

During a press conference this morning Mr Andrews said that further announcements on re-opening hospitality venues and a return to school would be made in the coming weeks.

The number of approved outdoor activities has also been increased with fishing, hiking, walking groups and golf set to return.

Up to 10 people will now be allowed to attend weddings and 20 can gather for funerals.

Also, elite sports teams will soon be able to train together with a view to restarting competition at some point.