Melbourne Restrictions Update

Here’s what you need to know

Melbourne has entered step two of Victoria’s roadmap out of coronavirus restrictions.

There’s no longer a curfew in place in the city, small groups can meet outdoors, and some industries will be allowed to start reopening.

But many measures are staying in place for at least another three weeks.

Can I meet up with other people?

Yes, you can. But the rules are still pretty strict.

Public outdoor gatherings are limited to five people from up to two households, not including babies under 12 months.

The 5-kilometre radius limit still applies here, so you can’t meet people outside of your area.

Do I still need to wear a face mask?

Yes, face coverings are still mandatory in public across Victoria.

There is also a new requirement for it to be a fitted face mask, which covers the nose and mouth.

“Some of the concessions we made as we adjusted to this new normal — things like wearing a scarf or a bandana or a face shield — will no longer apply,”  Premier Daniel Andrews said in a statement.

The State Government has also made it clear that a plastic face shield on its own is not enough.

Mr Andrews said this was because it doesn’t properly cover the nose and mouth.

What kind of fitness activities can I do now?

Outdoor pools can reopen for exercise, but changing rooms must stay closed and density limits are in place.

Outdoor personal training will be allowed, with a limit of two people plus one personal trainer

.If you need to bring a baby along to outdoor personal training, children under 12 months aren’t included in the two-person limit.

Other forms of outdoor exercise that don’t need a facility — such as fishing and hiking — will also be allowed.

But activities that need facilities, like tennis, bowls and golf, are still off the cards for now.

How about limits on weddings, funerals and religious gatherings?

Outdoor weddings will be allowed with up to five people, including the couple and two witnesses, plus the celebrant.

Up to 10 people can attend a funeral, but babies under 12 months of age and the people needed to conduct the service are not included in that limit.

Outdoor religious gatherings and ceremonies of up to five people, plus one faith leader, are now allowed.

A maximum of five people can also attend a place of worship in order to broadcast a religious ceremony.

However, places of worship must remain closed.

So when does Melbourne progress to step three?

Step three of Melbourne’s roadmap was originally slated for October 26.

But because Victoria’s coronavirus cases are improving faster than anticipated, Mr Andrews said that step could happen a week ahead of schedule on October 19.