Dan’s ‘disappointing’ news for Melbourne

The decision to extend lockdown in Melbourne will cause “pain” but it’s the only option, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says the decision to extend lockdown in Melbourne will cause “pain”.

Mr Andrews on Sunday expressed his disappointment as he released a new plan to ease restrictions across the state.

But he has defended the “difficult decisions” made by authorities, saying “It is the only option we have”.

“I’m disappointed too, that I cannot have better news for people today, but false hope is no hope.

“We will get these businesses open as soon as we can.”

The majority of retail businesses are also closed across Melbourne as health authorities work to reduce community COVID-19 transmissions across the state. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Mr Andrews spoke of his own parents’ business being “wiped away through no fault of their own” and said he understood what it means to have invested that time and energy.

But he said opening up faster would result in Victorians being sent in and out of lockdowns.

Mr Andrews and treasurer Tim Pallas are expected to announce further support for businesses, as well as people who are experiencing depression and mental health problems.

Under the slight relaxation of restrictions from 11.59pm on September 13, people who live alone will now be able to partner up with one other person and be allowed to visit each other.

The move, dubbed a social bubble, is similar to intimate partner arrangements, and being introduced in response to concerns about people being alone for long periods of time.

“And as hard as this news will be for so many Victorians today, it's the only option,” Mr Andrews said.

“With the greatest of respect to everyone … what would be even harder news would be to convince yourself and think, because the government of the day told you this is over, we can go back to normal.

“Only for me to have you stand here again in a few weeks' time and say we got it wrong, it's back again, and now we have to shut down again.”