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In an effort to slow the spread of the Omicron variant, the Victorian government has announced changes to restrictions, which will come into effect from 11.59pm January 6.
On January 6, daily cases reached a new record high in Victoria, with 21,997 reported within 24 hours. The state's health minister Martin Foley stated that almost half of cases were in young people in their 20s – and a significant proportion of those were infected while visiting hospitality or entertainment venues. To address this, new rules surrounding mask-wearing and density limits will be reinstated to reduce the likelihood of transmission while ensuring businesses can remain open.
From 11.59pm on January 6, Victorians will be required to wear masks in all indoor settings except private residences. These settings include all retail and hospitality venues, public transport and in taxis and rideshare vehicles, on planes and at airports, at schools, in healthcare settings, and in aged care facilities. Masks will also be required at all major events with more than 30,000 people in attendance (including outdoor events), except when seated. Changes to density limits will see hospitality and entertainment venues restricted to capacities of one person per two square metres.
Changes to the reporting of Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) results will also be enforced from tomorrow. People will now be required to notify the DHHS if they have returned a positive test result and can do so via an online form or via phone. Further instructions have not yet been confirmed about the reporting process, with Minister Foley saying more information would be available from January 7.
As always, head to the Victorian government website for further information. And if you have any questions, you can call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.