With restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne set to ease from 11:59pm tonight, we’ve summarised the changes plus other important information below.
The Victorian Government has announced the further easing of COVID-19 restrictions from 11.59pm Thursday 17 June.
For a detailed overview of the changes, and their implications for the tourism sector, see the updated Table of Restrictions.
Here is a summary of changes to restrictions for metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria
- The 25km travel limit will be removed and travel between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria will resume.
- Masks will continue to be required indoors but they are no longer required outdoors – however they’ll still be recommended when you can’t maintain physical distancing.
- Hospitality venues can have up to 25 patrons before the density quotient applies.
- Gyms can open across Melbourne, with density limits and COVIDSafe Plans in place.
- Hair and beauty services can now operate without masks during service.
- If you can work from home, you should continue to work from home.
- Twenty people can gather outside in Melbourne, and 50 in regional Victoria.
Important information for Alpine Resorts
After 11.59pm on Thursday 17 June, people can travel from metropolitan Melbourne to Victoria’s Alpine Resorts if they have received a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departing Melbourne.
Adults and children over 12 years cannot enter a resort without providing evidence of a negative COVID-19 test.
This measure may be challenging for people, however it is a necessary step that takes into account the impact winter has on the virus.
These measures will continue to be reviewed in line with other COVIDSafe settings.
QR Codes
All businesses are now required to use the Victorian Government QR Code Service, unless an exemption applies.
Businesses must ensure that every customer and visitor has checked-in, no matter how long they are at the premises.
A reminder that the enforcement amnesty for retailers ends tomorrow, Thursday 17 June 2021, and retail businesses that do not comply with QR code requirements will risk fines from this date.
Support for businesses
There are a number of support programs available to businesses that have been impacted by the restrictions.
- The Circuit Breaker Business Support Package provides support to employing and non-employing businesses. Applications are now open for the Business Costs Assistance Program Round Two and Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund 2021.
- The Regional Tourism Support Package provides direct assistance to tourism businesses, including accommodation providers, attractions and experiences.
- The Victorian Events Support Package provides support to event organisers, hosts and suppliers. Applications will open soon.
For more information and to apply, visit Business Victoria.
Other important information for businesses
Anyone with symptoms should get tested immediately – please encourage your staff to get tested if they are unwell. The list of testing sites includes wait times.
All Victorians over the age of 40 are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. For more information on how to book your vaccine appointment, visit the Coronavirus website.
As restrictions ease, it’s important to check your COVIDSafe Plan is up to date.
For more information, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au or call the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15.
Thank you for your efforts during these challenging times to keep Victorians safe.
