Melbourne icons off limits to unvaxxed under new council rules

Some of Melbourne’s most iconic sites will soon be off limits to the unvaccinated, including one building used for a major festival.

Some of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings will be off limits to the unvaccinated from November 5.

The City of Melbourne announced on Wednesday that visitors, staff and contractors attending council operated facilities must be fully vaccinated from November 5.

It means people will be barred from well known buildings like the Town Hall, Melbourne City Baths, Carlton Baths, libraries and community and recreation centres within the council area unless they’ve been double jabbed.

Council CEO Justin Hanney said the complex decision was “not made lightly”.

From November 5, visitors to the iconic Melbourne City Baths must be vaccinated.

“The past 18 months have been incredibly difficult for us all, and have tested the resilience of our city like never before,” Mr Hanney said.

“We believe that Covid-19 vaccination is the best way to reopen our city, while protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of our staff and our broader community.

“Our people have overwhelmingly told us they agree.”

The Melbourne Town Hall is also affected by the new rule. Photo: Diego Fedele/Getty Images

Vaccination will be required to enter any City of Melbourne site, including libraries, recreation centres, community facilities, and administration offices including the Town Hall.

“As we continue to provide essential services and support our community, we want to ensure the City of Melbourne is a safe and healthy place to work, and our facilities remain safe places to visit,” Mr Hanney said.

The rule will not apply to those with a valid medical exemption.

The deadline is in line with the state road map unveiled by Premier Daniel Andrews indicating that by November 5, 80 per cent of Victorians aged 16 and over will have been fully vaccinated.