Coronavirus Melbourne: Victoria expected to record more than 650 new cases

Victorians are bracing for tougher coronavirus lockdown measures as the state is believed to have recorded another surge in new infections overnight.

Victoria is expected to see another surge in new coronavirus infections overnight as the state braces for tougher lockdown restrictions.

More than 650 new cases is expected to be announced on Sunday, and potentially a record number of deaths, the Herald Sun reports.

Premier Daniel Andrews is also expected to announce a raft to tough new restrictions to try and stem spiralling coronavirus cases and rising death toll.

The notification for the Premier’s daily media briefing, usually around 11am, is still yet to be circulated, further fuelling speculation new measures are looming with the delays typically needed to iron out details of announcements.

There is more than 6000 active cases in Victoria and the total has surpassed 11,000.

More than 1000 active cases are related to outbreaks in aged-care facilities, while more than 1000 healthcare workers have been infected since the pandemic started.

Mr Andrews said on Saturday there was a “growing concern for community transmission” as social media exploded overnight with the imminent decision on further restrictions.

People exercising at Albert Park Lake in Melbourne, Victoria. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett

The Premier said 49 of Victoria’s new infections recorded in recent days were total “mystery cases”, which meant contacts could not be traced back to the point of infection.

“That can mean there are many more than 49 out there that have very mild symptoms or no symptoms at all,” he said.

“They can be at the height of their infectivity and be infecting other people unbeknown to them. That is the real challenge here. It is a silent enemy, it is a very cunning enemy as well.”

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews speaks to the media at a press conference. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Sarah Matray

Some Victorians have also continued to blatantly breach the current stage three restrictions with police issuing the highest number of infringements in a single day since the second lockdown started in metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire on July 8.

Police handed out 168 fines in the 24 hours to Saturday morning for breaches of the chief health officer’s restrictions, with 31 one of those for failing to wear a face covering.

Police Minister Lisa Neville said the overwhelming majority of Victorians were doing the right thing but authorities were still continuing to see “appalling behaviour”.

“If you’re thinking you can get around these rules, find ways to get around these rules, Victoria Police will be there. It’s the best way we can get out of these lockdowns if we all abide by the rules,” she said.

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