Premier Dan Andrews has announced today that COVID-19 restrictions are being eased even further, in great news for Victoria.
As per 9news, Andrews announced the wonderful news in his press conference and it looks like Christmas is back on for the state. After months of slogging it through tough lockdowns, it’s some light at the end of the tunnel for the state. Starting from December 13th, residents will be allowed to host Christmas parties and other gatherings inside their homes for up to 30 guests.
A more immediate change was also announced: from 11:59pm tonight, November 22nd, masks will no longer have to be worn outdoors, as long as social distancing is maintained.
Andrews used a typically Australian example of a trip to Bunnings to explain the new rules. “If you go to Bunnings and you are inside the store, you are wearing a mask,” he said.
“If you are in the car park, you do not have to wear your mask, but if you are queueing up for a sausage, and you are with other people and you are simply not keeping a distance, you are part of a crowd, you need to put the mask on.” He said that Victorians still need to carry their mask with them at all times, just in case.
Other promising measures will also come into effect overnight and it’s great news for the hospitality industry.
Large bars and restaurants will be able to host up to 200 people outside and 100 people indoors, so long as the four-square metre rule is maintained. Smaller venues have also not missed out, with a cap of 50 people with a two-square metre rule allowed indoors.
If you want to just have a gathering at your own house, up to 15 visitors are allowed from tomorrow. Andrews emphasised that this meant 15 people across a whole day, however, not at a single time.
The good news comes as Victoria recorded its 23 day of zero new coronavirus cases and zero deaths. Dan Andrews called the steps “a recognition of this precious thing that we have built”.

Check out the COVID-19 roadmap press conference:

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