Masks off outdoors at last: Freedom for Victoria is long overdue

The Victorian Covid rule changes will transform Melbourne from a moribund to vibrant city. So it’s high time to get public servants back into their offices.

When Victoria reaches 90 per cent vaccinated, mask wearing will only be compulsory in some indoor, high-risk settings like on public transport. Picture: Sarah Matray

It is clear now that Melbourne’s “freedom day” was not last Friday when the state government’s lockdown was finally lifted.

Sure, the curfew was gone, Melbourne travel restrictions were dumped, and some limited indoor hospitality allowed.

But those measures should have been done weeks ago, and Melburnians wanted much more, especially amid soaring Covid vaccination rates.

If there is to be a freedom day it should probably be next Friday when vaccination rates are tipped to reach 80 per cent.

As promised today by Premier Daniel Andrews, statewide travel will be allowed, indoor hospitality capacity increased to 150 people, and more people allowed at weddings and funerals.

Finally, and not before time, the ridiculous rule forcing people to wear masks outside when there is nearly zero chance of virus transmission will be abandoned.

The mask mandate was up there with the draconian decision to close down playgrounds for part of the lockdown.

While masks will still be required indoors, Melburnians will relish the opportunity to again go to cafes, restaurants and bars in big numbers with friends and family.

They will enjoy seeing movies in cinemas and live performances in theatres.

Their ability to improve their physical wellbeing will be enhanced with the reopening of gyms and indoor pools, and the belated return of community sport.

These changes will help transform Melbourne from a moribund and depressed city to a place that is vibrant again, and give hope to citizens that were locked down for so long.

More freedoms have been promised when the 90 per cent vaccination rate is reached in late November.

The Premier says there will be no capacity or density limits, and indoor mask-wearing will only be enforced in settings like public transport, hospitals and aged care.

Given all these welcome moves, the government’s priority now should be getting workers back into inner city offices, starting with public servants.