Christmas get-together looking good!

The prospect of a family Christmas get together is looking brighter.

Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed on the weekend people can host up to 30 in their homes for Christmas Day.

Babies under 12 months won’t count towards the cap.

The change comes into effect from December 13.

Between now and December 13, you can host up to 15 people per day in your home, up from two under the previous stage of restrictions.

“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,” the Premier said.

Outdoor numbers have also increased with up to 50 people allowed at gatherings in a public place such as the beach or a park.

Limits on weddings, funerals and indoor religious ceremonies have also increased to 150.

In welcome news for the hospitality sector, the number of patrons will also increase.

For smaller venues, the density limit will change to one person for every two square metres – up to 50 customers.

It will be mandatory for businesses to have QR code record keeping.

For bigger venues, the density limit will stay the same (one person for every four square metres), but the cap will increase to 150. Total venue capacity will also rise to 300.

Cinemas, galleries and museums will also be able to host up to 150 people indoors.

Adults can now return to community sport.

Contact and non-contact sports for adults as well as children under 18 have a limit of 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 apply, depending on whether it’s a school fete or a major sporting match.

Workplaces are able to begin a phased transition back to the office, with up to 25 per cent of staff able to work onsite.

“I want to be clear though – unless you’re one of those people nominated by your employer – you need to keep working from home,” the Premier said.

In another welcome change, the rules around mask wearing have also been relaxed.

Masks still have to be worn indoors and on public transport, where social distancing is not possible.

If you’re outdoors and can keep a safe distance, masks are no longer mandatory, however you must still carry a mask with you at all times.

Details of the current restrictions at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/last-step-coronavirus-roadmap-reopening.