Australia: Victoria maintaining COVID-19 measures as of March 18 /update 29

Event

Officials in Victoria continue to enforce reduced COVID-19 restrictions as of March 18. Outdoor events of up to 100 people and home gatherings with up to 30 visitors can occur. Authorities require individuals to carry facemasks outside of the home and use them on public transport, rideshare vehicles, shopping centers and large retail location, and sensitive venues, like aged care facilities. However, officials continue to recommend residents wear facemasks at sites where it is difficult to maintain physical distancing.

Private and public offices with a COVIDSafe Plan can operate on-site with a maximum of 75 percent of staff. However, all businesses must limit overall capacity to one person per two square meters (21 square feet); restaurants, bars, and nightclubs can hold up to 25 people before density limits take effect. The government also requires high-traffic businesses and community venues to maintain contact details of patrons - usually through a quick response (QR) code - or restrict patrons to one person per four square meters (43 square feet).

Domestic Border Controls
Victoria allows travel from most Australian locations; however, officials require travelers to apply for a permit to enter the state.

Quarantine Requirements
The government continues to suspend most inbound international commercial passenger flights until further notice. However, flights from New Zealand are operational. Officials do not require travelers from New Zealand to quarantine, though they must apply for a permit before entry.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security personnel. Confirm flight reservations if planning to travel to Melbourne in the coming weeks.

Resources

Victoria Government
Victoria Lockdown Restrictions
Victoria COVID-19 Reopening Roadmap
Victoria Department of Health and Human Services
Victoria Border Crossing Permit