By Taylah Eastwell
Victoria’s fifth lockdown has been eased, but some restrictions will remain in place for at least two weeks.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Tuesday 27 July that the state would revert to a lighter lockdown, giving Victorian’s more freedom while ensuring some restrictions remain in place.
The news comes as the state recorded 10 new local cases of Covid-19 overnight, all linked to current outbreaks and all in isolation during their infectious period.
The five reasons to leave home is scrapped, however no visitors are allowed at home. Public gatherings of 10 people are allowed.
The 5km travel bubble has been scrapped, with Victorian’s free to roam between regional areas and metro Melbourne – but no visiting family or other homes.
Students can return to face-to-face learning from Wednesday.
Cafes and restaurants are free to open their doors, however strict density limits and patron caps apply – with only 100 people allowed inside indoors at once and 300 outside – but just one person per four square metres.
Retail is set to reopen with the same strict density limits.
Masks remain mandatory in all indoor and outdoor settings where you cannot properly socially distance, except inside the home.
“I know its painful, I know no one enjoys doing it. But it is effective,” Mr Andrews said.
There will be no crowds at the footy or large events.
Office workers can return at 25% if absolutely necessary.
“If you can work from home you should. We would ask that you do,” Mr Andrews said.
These rules are expected to remain in place for a period of two weeks before being re-assessed.
