What are the new coronavirus rules for Victoria

The Victorian government has announced some slight changes to coronavirus restrictions in Melbourne to apply from 11.59pm on Friday.

Most of the existing rules remain in place under what Premier Daniel Andrews described as a “modest” change to lockdown restrictions.

This is a breaking story that will be updated as we get more information so please check back for the latest information.

There were changes to the rules both in Melbourne and in regional Victoria. The Melbourne rule changes will be detailed first and then regional restrictions will be added.

Rules for MelbourneGatherings

Outdoor social gatherings, such as picnics, will be added to the list of reasons to leave the home. These gatherings will be allowed for up to five people from two households but only if those over 18 years of age have had two vaccination shots.

The gathering limit will be two people for people who are unvaccinated or have had one vaccination dose.

Exercise and recreation

Two people will be able to outdoors with a personal trainer, skate parks and outdoor communal exercise equipment will also reopen.

Indoor physical recreation and sport will be allowed for up to five people to allow for broadcast.

Time and distance limits

The time limit for venturing outside the home for exercise of social gathering will increase from the existing two hour limit that applies on exercise to four hours.

The 5km limit on most movement outside the home increases to 10km.

Exceptions to the distance rule include returning home from a primary residence, visiting an intimate partner or person in your single bubble, authorised work (except construction), caring and getting a COVID-19 vaccination.

Masks

The rules on masks have not changed so must be carried at all times outside the home and worn in all indoor and outdoor settings for anyone over 12 years of age.

Property

Real Estate Inspections will resume by appointment only. The current occupant cannot be present and the real estate agent must remain outside.

Entertainment

Up to five people will be able to attend a venue (indoor fixed seated, outdoor fixed seated, non-seated indoor and non-seated outdoor) to broadcast a performance.

REGIONAL VICTORIAIndoor recreation

Indoor gyms and pools can open in regional Victoria, with density limits in place. It excludes spa, saunas and steam rooms.

More to come

correction

A previous version of this story incorrectly stated the new rules would apply from 11.59pm on Thursday.

Mathew Dunckley is digital editor at The Age. Based in our Melbourne newsroom, he was previously business editor for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age and Melbourne bureau chief for the Australian Financial Review.Connect via Twitter, Facebook or email.Michael Fowler is a state political reporter for The Age. Get in touch: michael.fowler@theage.com.au.Connect via Twitter or email.

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