Victoria moves to Stage Three coronavirus restrictions
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has confirmed the state will enter ‘Stage Three’ restrictions amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“That involves a ban with an on-the-spot fine of more than $1,600 if you breach it, on gatherings with more than two people, other than those in your household,” he said at a press conference.
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The restrictions will come into effect at midnight on Monday but Mr Andrews urged people to adhere to the restrictions from now.
In accordance to Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s announcement on Sunday on public gatherings of no more than two people and going outside, Mr Andrews reiterated there are only four reasons why you can leave your home.
“To get medical care, to go to work, for your daily exercise and to go and buy the things you need when you need them,” he said.
He urged essential shopping is not “window shopping”.
Another blunt message delivered by premier
He pleaded with Victorians to follow the restrictions in a bid to save the lives of others.
“If everyone follows these rules, and they are as simple as they can be, then we will slow the spread of this virus,” Mr Andrews said.
“We will save lives, we will protect our health system, we will get through this together and we will get to the other side of it quicker.”
He said if Victoria’s health system becomes overrun, “then people will die”.
“No gathering with friends is worth someone's life.
“Unless you want to be burying an elderly relative or your best mate, or your parents, if they're younger, do the right thing. It is very, very simple. Stay at home!”
There are currently four people in ICU in Victoria.
The gatherings limit applies for inside homes, with people who do not reside in a premises not allowed inside if the number of people inside exceeds two.
People are allowed to gather inside or outside with those who they share a residence with.
On Monday, Victoria confirmed a further 56 cases to take the state total to 821.
Nationally, there are 4163 cases, while 17 people have died – four of those in Victoria.
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