MORE COVID-19 restrictions were lifted last weekend.
Last week the state government moved to remove more restrictions in response to growing rates of vaccination. As of 11.59pm on 22 April people entering venues will no longer have to show their vaccination status or check in.
The mask mandate in primary school, early childhood, hospitality, and retail sectors has been removed. Masks are still required on public transport, at airports, and in health and aged care settings.
Close contacts of a positive COVID-19 case no longer have to quarantine, but must wear a mask indoors and record five negative rapid tests over a seven day period. Positive COVID-19 cases still have to quarantine for a week.
Visitor restrictions in hospitals have also been removed. Symptom-free international travellers are not required to test for COVID-19, and people who have had COVID-19 are now exempt from testing or quarantine for 12 weeks.
Existing vaccine mandates at workplaces remain.
Victorian health minister Martin Foley said that the changes were “sensible” because nearly 70 per cent of adults in the state have received a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
“The vaccinated economy kept Victorians safe and businesses open during an unpredictable time when we saw our highest case numbers ever – but now is the right time to set it aside and focus on the highest risk settings,” he said. “Many things that are very effective in driving down transmission will remain strongly recommended. That will keep us protected during winter and help us respond to emerging risks.”