Victoria set to finally scrap long-standing Covid rule
Victoria is easing indoor mask-wearing and working from home rules and bringing back elective surgery under changes to Covid-19 pandemic health orders.
The changes, including the removal of requirements for Victorians to work or study from home, come into effect from 11.59pm on Friday, Health Minister Martin Foley said on Tuesday.
"Victorians have done such a great job getting vaccinated so we're able to take safe steps to get more people to return to the office," he said.
But masks will be required on public transport, in taxis and rideshares, on planes and in airports and at hospitals and care facilities.
Hospitality, retail, court and corrective services workers will still have to don a mask.
Primary school students in year 3 or above will continue to wear masks for now, as will teachers, but secondary students will not.
As well, the government has decided remaining restrictions on elective surgery will lift on Monday, February 28.
"We're balancing the need to support our health system with the benefits of easing restrictions in a careful and sensible way," Mr Foley said.
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Vouchers to bust Omicron economy 'fog'
A $200 million stimulus package has been unveiled to boost Victoria's economic recovery as the "fog" lifts from its Covid-19 Omicron wave.
The state government on Monday announced the funding, which includes about $100 million in rebate schemes to entice people to spend on dining, entertainment and travel within the state.
"We think this is the best way to target support," Victorian Industry Support and Recovery Minister Martin Pakula told reporters.
Victoria will pour another $30 million into its long-running travel voucher program, allowing people to claim rebates when spending $400 or more on accommodation, experiences, tours or attractions.
Mr Pakula anticipates the latest 150,000 vouchers will be available by mid-March, well before the Easter holidays.
The Melbourne Money scheme will also return, with $10 million to lure diners back into the city's bars, cafes and restaurants.
Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp said the payback scheme, which will give diners rebates of 25 per cent on bills between $40 and $500 from Monday to Thursday, will be available from March 7.
"The Omicron fog is lifting. Covid caution is turning to Covid confidence," she said.
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