The Victorian Government is extending its state of emergency until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 21st. The state’s Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos made the announcement earlier today, saying the three-week extension will help to slow the spread of coronavirus and keep people safe.
Premier Dan Andrews announced last week that restrictions would slowly begin to ease across the state. The first changes came into effect in on Tuesday, May 26th with the reopening of outdoor playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor communal gym equipment.
A number of more significant allowances will commence this Monday, June 1st. Cafes, restaurants and pubs can welcome 20 customers at a time per enclosed space. Though, they’re required to follow the existing physical distancing requirements that allow just one person per four square metres. Tables in cafes, restaurants and pubs will also need to be at least 1.5 metres apart.
Extending the state of emergency gives the Victorian Government the power to continue enforcing these strict physical distancing and isolation requirements. It also means they can act on any directions from the Chief Health Officer without delay.
“The continued high testing rate in Victoria, coupled with the current low rate of community transmission, means restrictions will be further relaxed from tomorrow – but the battle against coronavirus is far from over,” Mikakos’ office said in a media release.
Another major change that comes into effect on Monday, June 1st is that Victorians can have a total of 20 people in their homes. Outdoor gatherings can also increase to 20 and overnight stays can resume at both private residences and in accommodation. Campgrounds and caravan parks will reopen to the public, but communal facilities like kitchens and bathrooms will remain closed.
The government insists that Victorians must continue to maintain physical distance from others, take hygiene precautions, avoid crowds, stay home and get tested if they’re unwell. On-the-spot fines for contravening restrictions apply, including up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses.
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