Michaela Meade
Victorians can go mask free in more public places as the state government eases COVID-19 restrictions from 6pm Friday, March 26.
Acting Premier James Merlino and Health Minister Martin Foley today announced changes to the COVIDSafe settings – the biggest change being that masks are no longer required in retail settings.
Victorians will still need to carry a face mask with them at all times, and must wear one on public transport, in rideshare vehicles and taxis, and in sensitive settings including aged care facilities and hospitals.
In other changes, Victorians will be able to host up to 100 people per day in their home, and outdoor gatherings in public places can increase to 200 people.
Density limits in venues will still operate under restrictive settings, however the one person per 4 square metre rule will be changed to allow one person per 2 square metres. This affects cafes, pubs and restaurants.
The 75 per cent cap on private and public offices will be removed.
Following a successful first round of AFL, crowds will be able to increase to 75 per cent for round two.
More people will be allowed in indoor non-seated entertainment venues, with capacity increasing from 50 per cent to 75 per cent. The limit of 1000 people per space will remain.
Outdoor and indoor physical recreation or fitness class sizes will no longer have limits.
Unstaffed gyms density limits will change from one person per 8 square metres to one person per 4 square metres.
Mr Merlino said: “We know the risk is far from over but thanks to the incredible work of all Victorians, we’re continuing to open up and see the Victoria we all love, return to life again.
“More Victorians back at work means more people supporting their local cafes, restaurants and live music venues – boosting the economy where it’s needed most.”
Victoria is now covid-free with no known active cases in the state, and there have been no locally acquired cases for 24 days.
For more information: coronavirus.com.au.
