In regional Victoria, up to two people plus dependents will be allowed to visit homes once a day, while hospitality venues can increase their capacity to 70 people outside and 40 people inside. The "ring of steel" that separates metropolitan Melbourne from regional Victoria will remain in place. Mr Andrews, however, indicated the next step could be brought forward, depending on case numbers across Victoria in the next week. "There is no sound reason to continue the restrictions on business, especially with case numbers clearly on a downward trajectory," she said in a statement. Opposition leader Michael O'Brien said restrictions should have been eased further, especially with respect to small businesses.

Source: Otago Daily Times October 18, 2020 20:09 UTC