RESTRICTIONS put in place to stop the spread of coronavirus will start to ease from 11.59pm, 12 May.
The Victorian government had outlined food and supplies, medical care and caregiving, exercise, and work or education as the only reasons to leave home during the pandemic. At a press conference on 11 May, Premier Daniel Andrews added “visiting friends and family” to the list of acceptable reasons to leave home.
Gatherings of up to ten people outdoors, and up to five visitors at home will be allowed.
“I know this will come as a welcome relief, but I need to be clear. Although these are our first steps back towards normalcy, they are not an invitation to host a dinner party every night of the week,” Mr Andrews said.
“We’re asking Victorians to limit their circle to just family and friends. That means that when we do have outbreaks and positive cases, and we will, we can test and trace and effectively contain the spread.”
Walking groups, fishing, hiking, and golfing will all be allowed after the restrictions are relaxed.
Up to ten guests are allowed at weddings and 20 at funerals. Up to 30 people are allowed at a funeral if it is held outdoors.
There have been 26 Kingston residents test positive for COVID-19 as of 11 May.
The revised restrictions will be in place during a renewed state of emergency, which lasts in Victoria until 11.59pm 31 May.
On the spot fines of up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses are applicable if social distancing guidelines are violated.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 13 May 2020