A specific plan for regions to reopen
The government has announced there will be a dedicated plan for easing restrictions in regional Victoria.
The state government said it will release a dedicated regional roadmap – providing greater certainty to communities, tourism operators and businesses alike that restrictions will be eased at a safe pace – based on localised health advice.
Premier Daniel Andrews said: “Regional Victoria and Melbourne are experiencing this virus in different ways. That’s why we need a dedicated regional roadmap to plan for – and protect – regional Victoria.
“We want to open up the whole of our state in a steady and safe way. Because no matter your postcode, we’re in this together.”
Regional Victorians have responded to the call to get tested with over 100,000 tests since Stage 3 restrictions began.
The government said it recognised there was no one size fits all solution, and will offer tailored guidance not only to different industries – but to different parts of the state, with dedicated roadmaps for both Melbourne and regional Victoria.
The Premier said discussions are underway with a range of industry, unions and community organisations to inform the final work on Victoria’s roadmap to ‘COVID Normal’, including a separate roadmap to protect and support regional Victoria.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes will lead consultation with regional partnership committees, employers and unions to ensure regional communities are kept safe and to help local businesses rebuild.
The government said it will also consult with community support organisations on the impacts of social isolation on Victorians.
