By TOM GANNON
THE State Government has today announced further easing of restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria, just in time for school holidays.
The changes to restrictions will come in to effect from 11.59pm tomorrow night.
One of the bigger changes in restrictions for Victorians is the increase of home visitors from five in regional areas and two in metropolitan areas to 15 across the entire state.
It is good news for sports fans as players, parents and spectators can attend outdoor community sport within the total cap of 1,000 people, only limited by the one person per 2sqm rule.
The regulations surrounding masks will not change and masks must still be worn inside.
Care facility and hospital visitors will move to two visitors at a time and up to five a day.
Schools and higher education/training will move to a density limit of one person per 2sqm.
Work from home requirements across regional and metropolitan areas will be removed and businesses can hold up to 75 per cent of staff or up to 30 people if the workplace total is 40 or less.
Density limits of 1 person per 2sqm remain in place.
Up to 300 people will be permitted to attend both indoor and outdoor funerals and weddings, however dance floors will still not be permitted for the latter.
Pubs, bars and other hospitality venues will move to 75 percent capacity and no group limits will apply for indoor and outdoor, non-seated venues.
Nightclubs will have no overarching venue limit but a density limit of 1 person per 2sqm will apply.
Dance floors will remain closed for all entertainment venues.
Acting Premier James Merlino said these most recent changes in restrictions will last for two weeks to allow for extra freedoms during school holidays, he has urged Victorians to explore the state and support regional communities.
“These changes won’t just last a week – they’ll remain in place for at least two weeks’ time, meaning Victorians can plan and get back to doing the things they love,” he said.
“If you’re taking some time off over the next few weeks, go out and explore your state. Head to the bush, stay at the beach – shop in a small town, and buy Victorian made.”
