Some relief, but no good news for business

The announcement of the ‘roadmap’ to a new “Covid normal” by the Premier on the weekend means no major changes to local restrictions in the next few weeks.

However, in light of the low number of cases (82 as of September 8), regional Victoria will move straight to the second stage of the roadmap to recovery.

The Premier confirmed that from 11:59pm on September 13, people living alone and single parents will be able to have a “bubble” and nominate one person who can visit them at home.

Up to five people (from a maximum of two households) will be able to gather together in outdoor public places, like the park or the beach. The Premier said having the two-household limit would limit the virus’ ability to spread.

Playgrounds and outdoor pools can reopen from September 13 and religious services can be conducted outside with a maximum of five people, plus a faith leader.
Students will also return to school from Term four.

The four reasons for leaving home – shopping for food and essential items, providing care or seeking medical treatment, exercise and work or education – remain in place.

Childcare services will reopen.

However, anyone who can work from home must continue to do so, while hospitality can still only offer take-away and delivery.

Only essential retail or those with click and collect services should be operating.

Entertainment venues remain closed, as do accommodation providers, except for emergency or permitted purposes.

Travel within Victoria is not allowed.

For full details of what is permitted, go to www.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19-restrictions-roadmaps.