Victorian parliament postponed for another month as state deals with coronavirus emergency

Victorian parliament has been cancelled as the state deals with the COVID-19 emergency, with health advice making the shutdown a necessity.

Victoria's Legislative Assembly speak Colin Brookes says health advice has prompted him to cancel Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting. Picture: Nicole Garmston

Victorian parliament has been cancelled over health fears as the state grapples with a surge of coronavirus cases.

Ministers were set to return to chambers on Tuesday, but Victoria Legislative Assembly speaker Colin Brooks postponed any sitting until September 1. Parliament last sat on June 18.

In a letter sent to government ministers, Mr Brooks said health advice prompted the decision.

“I have today received advice from the chief health officer that leaves me with no doubt that this week’s sitting should be delayed,” he wrote.

“The advice points to our responsibility to the health and safety of those working in the parliament, the parliament’s responsibility to analyse and respond to proposed new workplace directions and to play our part in preventing the transmission of COVID-19 between Melbourne and regional Victoria.

“This is not a decision that has been taken lightly and I can assure members that the parliamentary departments will continue to work hard to position the house for its return.”

State Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien had previously called for an early recall of parliament, saying Victoria’s “deteriorating” COVID-19 situation required urgent attention in the house.

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