Covid restrictions ease - for us and for Melbourne

From 11.59pm on Thursday (June 10), Melbourne will move to almost the same settings as we've enjoyed for the past week in regional Victoria.

And restrictions will ease further in the regions.

One thing that hasn't changed is the ban on people from metropolitan Melbourne travelling to the regions for the long weekend.

That's still "a no go", said acting Premier James Merlino.

Mr Merlino said while the restrictions were being eased, it was still vital to try and limit the amount of movement in the community.

"Wherever possible, we're asking people to stay local."

The key changes coming into force tomorrow night for regional Victoria are:

• You can have up to two visitors to your home (plus dependents), once a day
• Public outdoor gatherings have increased to 20 people
• Capacity limits will be increased in restaurants and venues, community facilities and religious gatherings
• Indoor sports, including gyms can resume, with limits on numbers
• Community sport returns, but cannot travel to metropolitan Melbourne for matches

Key changes for Melbourne include:

• The five reasons for leaving home will no longer apply
• The existing 10km limit will increase to 25kms
• Outdoor public gatherings of 10 people are allowed, but still no visitors to the home
• Schools will reopen
• Cafes, restaurants and pubs will reopen, with strict density limits and retail can reopen.

Across the state, people who can work from home are being asked to continue to do so.

Mask must be worn indoors and in outdoor settings where it isn't possible to maintain a 1.5 metre distance.

It is mandatory to use the QR codes and check in service at all retail and hospitality venues.

Support has been extended for business still unable to open up (even with the easing of restrictions), with the government offering a further $2000 top up payment.

Mr Merlino thanked all Victorians for their collective efforts over the past two weeks.

"As individuals, as families and as a community, we have again done an incredible thing: protecting our state with grit, guts and determination.

"Thanks doesn’t seem enough, but I’ll say it anyway. To every Victorian for following the rules, for doing the right thing, and for doing it with kindness and compassion – thank you."

He urged everyone to stay CovidSafe and get tested if displaying any symptoms.

"It’s singlehandedly the biggest contribution we can make, ensuring that if the virus is circulating – we catch it early. Whether you do it for your family, your mates or your state – if you’re sick, get tested."

A full list of the new restrictions will be available later today at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covidsafe-settings