Victoria records another day of zero new coronavirus infections

Victoria has recorded its ninth straight day of no new coronavirus infections as Victorians prepare to get some major freedoms back.

Victoria has recorded its ninth straight day of zero new coronavirus cases on Sunday as Premier Daniel Andrews prepares to announce further easing of restrictions across the state.

Melbourne’s 14-day rolling virus average fell from 0.9 to 0.4, while regional Victoria’s average is at zero.

There are two cases in metropolitan Melbourne with an unknown source.

It comes as the state prepares to move ahead to the next step on the COVID-19 recovery road map on Sunday.

From 11.59pm Sunday, Melbourne’s “ring of steel” – which has been up since July 9 and separates the city from regional Victoria – is expected to be scrapped.

People will be free to come and go from their homes as often as they please and indoor gyms will reopen for the first time since July.

But there will be a cap on the number of people allowed in, with 10 per class or space and up to 20 for each venue.

People enjoy the weather at St Kilda beach in Melbourne, Victoria. From late Sunday the controversial 25km travel restriction will be dropped. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Daniel Pockett

The controversial 25km travel restriction will also be dropped.

Capacity in pubs, cafes and restaurants will be increased from 20 to 40 indoors and up to 70 outdoors, and bookings of up to 10 will be allowed.

But venues must adhere to the one person per four-squared-metres rule.

Outdoor gatherings will be limited to groups of 10.

Victorians must also continue working from home if they can.

From 11.59pm Sunday, Melbourne’s “ring of steel” – which has been up since July 9 and separates the city from regional Victoria – is expected to be scrapped. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Geraghty

It’s likely there will be no changes made to weddings (up to 10 people) but funeral numbers may increase to up to 50 outdoors. The limit on 20 indoors is predicted to stay the same.

There’s been a big push to get kids moving again and from this Sunday children younger than 18 will be allowed to participate in indoor non-contact sports.

Outdoor bootcamps will be given the green light, as long as numbers are restricted to 10 and social distancing is possible.

Indoor pools can host up to 20 people and 50 for outdoor pools.

For religious gatherings, up to 20 people (plus a faith leader) will be allowed indoors, and up to 50 people (plus a faith leader) outdoors.

Premier Daniel Andrews is expected to front the media later on Sunday with confirmation about the easing of restrictions.

Originally published as Victoria records another day of zero new coronavirus infections