Stage 4 restrictions are now in force across metropolitan Melbourne in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19.
An 8pm curfew and limiting travel to 5km from the home are among the tough new measures that began as Victoria entered a state of disaster on Sunday night.
The Stage 4 restrictions will remain in place for at least six weeks – until 13 September.
Restrictions relating to workplaces will be announced on Monday.
Regional Victoria will move to Stage 3 restrictions from 11.59pm Wednesday. Stage 3 restrictions will remain in place for Mitchell Shire.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced the changes to restrictions on Sunday afternoon, as the state recorded 671 new COVID-19 cases and seven deaths.
Mr Andrews said this included 760 “mystery cases” where the source of infection could not be determined.
“That community transmission is in many respects our biggest challenge and the reason why we need to move to a different set of rules,” he said.
“We have to do more and do more right now.”
Those who break the rules risk a $1,652 fine or being taken to court where a penalty of $10,000 can be imposed.
STAGE 4 RESTRICTIONS – METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE (effective from 6pm Sunday 2 August)
– A curfew from 8pm to 5am. The only reasons to leave home during these hours will be work, medical care and caregiving.
– Exercise limited to a maximum of one hour per day, and no more than five kilometres from home. Group size limited to two – you and one other person – whether you live with them or not. However, parents can take their children on a walk.
– Shopping limited to one person per household per day, no more than 5km away (unless your local supermarket is further away)
– No weddings from Thursday 6 August
– Study at TAFE and uni must be done remotely
– Face coverings will continue to be compulsory
– All students to learn remotely. Those currently attending onsite – including senior students and those specialist schools – will go to school on Monday, have a pupil free day on Tuesday, and begin learning at home from Wednesday. Onsite learning will only be for students who really needed (such as children of permitted workers)
– From Thursday, early childhood will only be open to families of defined workplaces where the child needs care and to vulnerable children
