Victoria’s new restrictions on public gatherings and home visits

Victoria’s snap lockdown is ending but here are the new restrictions in place from Thursday.

When does this start?

The new rules come into place from Thursday.

Are the rules the same for country and metro residents?

Yes. The restrictions will apply statewide.

What are the reasons I can leave home?

There are no restrictions on the reasons you can leave home.

How far can I travel?

The 5km limit falls away, there is no restriction on travel.

Do I have to wear a mask?

Yes you must wear a mask when indoors but you do not have to wear them outdoors unless you cannot socially distance.

What about shops and hospitality venues?

All retail and hospitality venues can now reopen with density limits. A 1 per 2 sqm quota applies after a hospitality venue has 25 patrons.

Hospitality venues struck hard by the snap lockdown can reopen from Thursday. Picture: Alex Coppel

What about beauty and hairdressing?

All personal care services can now reopen.

Are schools open?

Yes all schools will reopen from Thursday.

Should I go to work?

Workplaces can reopen with 50 per cent capacity.

How many people can I have to my house?

Gatherings at home are limited to five people per day but can be from any number of households. This includes your back and front yards. This will apply until at least February 26 which marks the end of the 14 day virus cycle.

How many people can I meet outside?

Public gatherings must be limited to 20 people outdoors. Infants under one are not included in the cap.

What about sport, pools and the gym?

Sport and recreation can all reopen again with density limits. Gym and exercise classes (eg: spin and circuit groups) have maximum size limits of 50 indoors and 100 outdoors.

Crowds will resume at the Australian Open. Picture: Daniel Pockett/Getty Images

Will the Australian Open have crowds?

Yes but the number of spectators allowed is still being worked on.

What about weddings, funerals and religious gatherings?

They can all resume subject to same density limits as before the snap lockdown. There is no maximum number of attendees but venues must comply with 1 person per 2 sqm.

What about community facilities like libraries?

All community facilities will be reopened.

Can I go the movies and other entertainment venues?

Cinemas can reopen with 50 per cent capacity up to a maximum of 300 people.

All seated venues and non-seated indoor venues also follow this rule.

Outdoor non-seated venues, drive-ins, gaming venues, night clubs and adult entertainment can reopen with same limits as before the snap lockdown.

Are auctions and house inspections back on?

Yes they can restart.

What happens with hospitals and aged care facilities?

Visitors to hospitals and aged care will be resumed but be limited to one household per day.