Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has just released a statement in relation to the state’s dwindling COVID-19 case rate – as public order restrictions are set to ease from midnight tonight.
“Three months ago, Victoria had 4293 active cases. Today we have one,” the Premier said.
“It’s an incredible achievement. And the clearest evidence there is of our determination to not only get on top of this virus – but to squash it.
“Back then, the goal – the hope – was something a little more ‘normal’ for Christmas.
“Today, because of the efforts of every Victorian, that’s exactly what we’ve been able to achieve.”
Announcing changes to COVID-19 restrictions in the state, Mr Andrews confirmed that Victorians will be able to host up to 30 people in their homes on Christmas Day – and babies under 12 months won’t count towards the guest cap.
“This change will come into effect from 11.59pm, 13 December, just in time for catch-ups, and Christmas barbies – and for our Jewish communities, the closing days of Hanukkah,” he said.
“We’re also able to confirm some more immediate changes.
“From 11:59pm tonight, the number of visitors to your home will increase from two to 15 per day.
“That can be split across different times – ten for lunch, and five for dinner – as long as people are sticking to a total of 15.”
Outdoor gatherings in a public place – the park, the beach – will increase to 50 from midnight, he confirmed
“For those couples who’ve had to delay their special day, weddings will increase to 150 people. The same number will apply to funerals and religious ceremonies indoors.”
The Premier also announced changes to Victoria’s stricken hospitality sector.
“For smaller venues, the density limit will change to one person for every two square metres – up to 50 customers. QR code record keeping will be mandatory. For bigger venues, the density limit will stay the same, but the cap will increase to 150. Total venue capacity will also rise to 300,” he said.
Cinemas, galleries and museums will also be able to host up to 150 people indoors.
“And in good news for community clubs, contact and non-contact sports can begin for adults as well as kids – 150 people indoors with a group size of up to 20 and 500 outdoors with groups of up to 50.”
“Organisers will also be able to apply to host a public event. Different requirements and rules will need to apply, depending on whether it’s a school fete or a major sporting match.”
There’s also change ahead for office workers – with up to 25% of workers able to attend onsite workplaces from November 30.
“I want to be clear though – unless you’re one of those people nominated by your employer – you need to keep working from home.”
Mask-wearing will no longer be mandatory for Victorians outdoors, but they will still be required to wear one indoors and on public transport, or where social distancing is problematic.
“For example, you’ll still need to keep your mask on if you’re at a busy outdoor market – or in line for a snag at your local Bunnings.”
But don’t throw those outdoor masks away too quickly – you’ll still need to carry one when outdoors.
“If you’re headed for a quiet stroll around the neighbourhood, you won’t need to wear a mask – but you will need to carry one, in case the situation changes.”
“I know for some people, they’ll think this is too slow and still too restrictive.
“But the point is, masks are a small sacrifice that help keep all of us safe.
“And as we’ve been reminded so recently, all it takes is one case before you’ve got a much bigger outbreak.
“We’ll have more to say about what a “COVIDSafe Summer” will look like in the next few weeks – and in line with what our public health experts are telling us is safe.
“For now, though, I want to thank Victorians. Getting here was by no means guaranteed. But we did it. You did it. It’s been a long, hard winter. Now, it’s time to enjoy the sun.”
