From 11.59 pm tonight (Thursday 27 May) Victoria will move to Circuit Breaker restrictions for 7 days.

This is to stop the spread of the recent COVID-19 outbreak and to make sure the state can stay safe and open in the future.

During this time you must wear a mask at all times, both indoors and outdoors, unless you have an exemption. Masks are currently required to be worn indoors.

You can leave your home for the following 5 reasons:

• Shopping for necessary goods
• Caregiving or compassionate reasons
• Essential work or permitted education
• Exercise (for up to 2 hours)
• Vaccination

Business that can remain open

Businesses that are exempt from closing must have a strict COVIDSafe plan in place and act with care to ensure the safety of staff, visitors, and the public.

Those that are allowed to remain open include supermarkets, grocery stores (butchers, bakers, fruit and vegetable stores), bottle shops and petrol stations.

Restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars and hotels can remain open for takeaway orders, but cannot allow diners into their venue.

Businesses that supply goods or service necessary to support any essential provider can remain open such as meat processing or cold storage.

Businesses that are able to continue restricted operations must have a COVIDSafe plan in place.



Businesses that must close

While many retail and office-based businesses will need to pause operations entirely, some retailers will be able to continue operations in a limited capacity with contactless purchasing allowed.

Religious gatherings, indoor sports venues, offices and non-essential retail businesses will be required to work remotely.

Hotel and accommodation providers will be required to close, however, they are allowed to stay open to accommodate those already staying at their venues. No new bookings will be permitted.

Learn more about resrictions apply to business and industry.

We know this is tough news to take for many. If you are distressed or need someone to talk to you can call Lifeline 13 11 14.