With more than 92 per cent of eligible Victorians double dose vaccinated, coronavirus restrictions are being updated by the state government while the Omicron variant is monitored and investigated.
Health Minister Martin Foley signed pandemic orders under the new Public Health and Wellbeing Act, which came into effect this week and be in place until 12 January 2022.
Mr Foley has made the decision to sign the pandemic orders after considering advice from the Chief Health Officer (CHO) that there continues to be a serious risk to public health from the global pandemic, and that restrictions continue to be necessary to protect Victorians and the healthcare system.
The CHO said more information is needed about the Omicron variant of concern before considering further changes to protective measures – such as mask requirements.
All Victorians who are eligible for a booster five months after their second shot are urged to book an appointment as soon as possible.
The state government is also encouraging parents to get their kids vaccinated when the rollout for five to 11-year-olds begins on 10 January 2022.
As part of the orders, people under 18 will no longer be required to show proof of their vaccination status at all venues, such as hospitality.
The mandatory vaccination requirement will be removed for all customers in retail, except hair and beauty services, and will also be removed in real estate, places of worship, weddings and funerals. Mask settings in retail remain unchanged.
Under the pandemic orders, restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs are still only open to fully vaccinated patrons and staff. Workers are required to wear masks.
Face masks no longer need to be worn at weddings, funerals, or ceremonial settings.
“These measures strike a balance between the risk of community transmission, and the protection that comes from being one of the most vaccinated jurisdictions in the world,” Mr Foley said.
“All Victorians are eligible for a booster shot five months after their second dose and are urged to book an appointment as soon as possible. This will keep families safe during the holiday period and help slow the spread of the virus.”
