Some COVID-19 restrictions to return in Greater Melbourne

THE state government is reintroducing some coronavirus restrictions in Greater Melbourne from tonight (Tuesday, May 25) following yesterday’s detection of four cases in Melbourne’s north.

From 6pm, private gatherings in the home will be limited to five visitors per day, public gatherings will be limited to 30 people and face masks will need to be worn indoors in venues such as shopping centres, unless an exemption applies. The face mask requirement applies everyone aged 12 years and older.

Schools and workplaces will remain open with the current restrictions that are in place. Depending on the workplace, this includes COVIDSafe measures and in some cases, a density requirement. There are no changes to existing density rules.

Victorians who live in Greater Melbourne and need to travel to regional Victoria can still do so, but the restrictions travel with them.

For example, if you visit someone outside of metropolitan Melbourne, they must not have more than five visitors to their home in that day. If you attend a public gathering outside of Greater Melbourne, it must not be bigger than 30 people.

People visiting regional Victoria from Melbourne will also need to wear a face mask when indoors even when outside of metropolitan Melbourne, unless an exemption applies.

Hospital and aged care visitor restrictions will now apply statewide.

The state government has paused its plan to remove the density quotient in outdoor spaces and venues to a maximum of 200 people in spaces smaller than 400 sqm, with timing for this easing will be reassessed when public health advice indicates it is appropriate to do so.

The Public Health Advisory Panel will provide advice as soon as possible to coming Tier 1 and Tier 2 events if any modifications will be required for the event to proceed.

The state government is urging all Victorians to maintain COVIDSafe behaviours, get tested as soon as possible if you are unwell and stay isolated until you receive a negative result, and
to get vaccinated if you are eligible as soon as possible.

“These additional measures are about keeping Victorians safe while our coronavirus detectives work to track down any additional cases and stamp out the spread of this deadly virus,” Acting Premier James Merlino said.

“If you’re eligible to get vaccinated, don’t wait. Make an appointment or walk up to a vaccination site today. It’s the best way to protect yourself and your family.”

For more information about COVIDSafe settings, Victoria’s travel permit system and the vaccine program, head to the Department of Human Health and Service’s coronavirus website.