- The Victorian government is finally rolling out a new phase of more relaxed COVID-19 restrictions across Melbourne, after more than 100 days of lockdown
- This phase, which begins today, will allow resident to travel up to 25 kilometres from their homes, but the border between Melbourne and regional Victoria will remain in place
- People are also free to exercise and socialise outdoors for as long as they please, with gatherings capped at a maximum of ten people from only two households
- Certain businesses, such as hairdressers, will also be able to reopen, while real estate auctions with up to ten people may also resume
- Additional restrictions are expected to be lifted as of 11:59pm on November 1, but this may be brought forward if COVID-19 infection numbers remain low
After more than 100 days of lockdown, Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews has rolled out a new phase of eased COVID-19 restrictions, beginning today.
Under the new regulations, the limit on how far resident will be able to travel from their homes has been extended to 25 kilometres. However, the border between Melbourne and regional Victoria will remain in place.
Time limits on outdoor exercising and socialising have also been lifted, with facilities such as tennis courts, skate parks and golf courses now open for use. That said, social gatherings will be capped at a maximum of ten people from only two separate households.
Outdoor pools will retain a capacity of 30 people, while indoor pools will be available for one-on-one hydrotherapy sessions in conjunction with a health professional.
As far as businesses are concerned, hairdressers will be allowed to reopen, as will mobile pet groomers, and real estate auctions can be held with ten people.
While the new phase is a welcome development for Melburnians, residents will still be expected govern themselves largely according to the four permitted reasons for leaving their homes: to shop for food and other necessary goods, for care or compassionate reasons, for work or education, and for exercise or social interaction.
It’s expected that these reasons will be scrapped from 11:59pm on November 1, when the next stage of lifted restrictions is due to take place.
This phase is thought to include the reopening of hospitality venues with a maximum of 20 people inside and 50 outside, the resumption of seated outdoor entertainment with a maximum of 25 per cent capacity, and the reopening of other businesses, subject to certain conditions.
The Victorian government said that these changes may even be brought forward if COVID-19 infection numbers remain low.
“If we continue to follow the rules, if we enjoy these freedoms but do it in a COVID-safe way … then there is every chance that we are able to bring the November 1 deadline forward and take the next big step towards COVID normal some days ahead of the November 1,” said Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews.