Victoria’s Coronavirus Restrictions Are Finally Easing After Recording Zero New Cases

Here's some excellent news.

The past few months have been exceptionally tough for Victorians, who have faced significant restrictions on their daily activities 'cos of the coronavirus pandemic.

Stage 4 lockdown was implemented in metropolitan Melbourne back in August and students had to quickly adapt to learning from home. In fact, it was recently announced that Victoria will deploy thousands of tutors to help students who have fallen behind as a result of remote learning.

However, we've finally got some great news: Victoria has recorded zero new cases of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours and zero deaths for the first time since 9 June.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced that the thousands of tests taken across Melbourne's northern suburbs over the weekend had all come back negative. 

As reported by the ABC, this means Melbourne's 14-day rolling average for new cases has now fallen to 3.6 and there are seven "mystery" cases. In regional Victoria, the average is 0.2. 

Does this mean restrictions are easing?

It sure does. Mr Andrews has confirmed that Melbourne will move to the Third Step of Victoria's coronavirus roadmap. 

From 11.59pm tomorrow, Melburnians will be able to leave their homes for any reason. 

Mr Andrews also revealed that retail outlets, cafes, restaurants and bars will be allowed to reopen, subject to patron limits and density quotas. Gyms will also open their doors again, with some strict safety precautions in place. 

Up to 10 people will be able to gather outdoors from any number of households, while the capacity of pubs and restaurants will increase to up to 40 inside and 70 outside. 

Although, the 25km-radius travel limit and the border between Melbourne and regional Victoria will stay in place until 9 November, when further restrictions will be eased.

There will also be no change to wearing masks or face coverings for the time being. 

What's happening with schools? 

Good question.

Well, tens of thousands of Melbourne high school students in Years 8 to 10 returned to classrooms today. They were the last group to return to face-to-face learning.

Year 7 students in metropolitan Melbourne went back to classrooms earlier this month on Monday 12 October. 

It was announced in August that every Victorian Year 12 student will be individually assessed so that the impact of 'rona can be reflected in their ATAR. 

Understandably, the extended period of lockdown in the state has taken a toll on people's mental health.

The federal government revealed that they will provide 10 additional Medicare-subsidised psychological therapy sessions for Victorians subjected to further restrictions in areas impacted by coronavirus. The measure will be available until 31 March 2021. 

It's safe to say Melburnians are ecstatic that restrictions are easing. 

I love my state. This has been so incredibly hard and everyone has sacrificed so much. I’m so very proud and grateful of my fellow Victorians on what you’ve achieved. This is your achievement. ❤️

— Jenny Mikakos #StaySafeSaveLives (@JennyMikakos) October 26, 2020

Now, start preparing to head back to the gym!

Header Image: YouTube (Rosanna Pansino)