Coronavirus live news Australia: Andrews unveils 'modest' easing of rules; NSW cases fall under 1000, hits jab milestone; Victoria records 779 new cases

Victorians will enjoy greater freedoms from Wednesday, including the ability to travel 15km from home, while a second protester has tested positive. 

Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, at his COVID-19 update at Treasury Theatre in Melbourne. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Paul Jeffers

Welcome to The Australian's rolling coverage of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the national response. 

 

Victorians can expect "modest'' changes to restrictions this week as the state hits its 80 per cent first dose vaccination target; the state recorded 779 new locally-acquired Covid cases and two deaths.  NSW reported 961 new cases of Covid-19 and nine deaths, as the state reaches 85 per cent first dose coverage.  Some 59.25 per cent of the eligible population have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Meanwhile, Scott Morrison says the states and territories have no reason to keep their borders closed once 80 per cent of Australians are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and that he wants all Australians to have the gift of free movement for Christmas.