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Victoria's Covid deaths increase amid fears of new clusters

Victoria has recorded 779 new Covid cases, a slight dip from Saturday's big jump in infections.

Another two people have died from the virus, Victoria Health said on Sunday.

In the past 24 hours, 34,280 vaccines were administered and 46,322 test results were received. The state now has more than 8,000 active cases.

On Saturday, Victoria recorded 847 new Covid cases.

Victoria’s health department has faced backlash over a “condescending” message to residents on AFL Grand Final Day.

Health authorities have said they fear footy celebrations could lead to more Covid clusters emerging next week.

A skateboarder performs a frontside tail slide at the St Kilda skate park as protesters and Victorian Police converge into the area during a rally against mandatory Covid-19 vaccinations in St Kilda, Melbourne, Saturday, September 25, 2021. Source: AAP
Victoria has recorded 779 new Covid cases, a slight dip from Saturday's big jump in infections. Source: AAP

Meanwhile, the city of Geelong is poised to learn its lockdown fate.

Health Minister Martin Foley confirmed restrictions would ease on the state's Surf Coast from midnight on Sunday, while Greater Geelong and Mitchell Shire remained under review.

All three regions were plunged into lockdown a week ago after positive coronavirus cases emerged.

Mr Foley said the outlook for Geelong was "relatively positive" but Mitchell Shire - which recorded seven new cases on Saturday - is likely to remain locked down.

Australia hits 75 per cent first-dose vaccination target

Three in four Australians aged 16 and over have now had at least their first Covid-19 vaccine, as deaths in NSW and Victoria continue to rise.

In another milestone for the quickening national rollout, Australia hit 75.4 per cent first-dose vaccination of its 16-plus population on Saturday.

"I'm pleased to report 75 per cent of the nation's 16s and over, have rolled up their sleeves to receive a first vaccine dose," federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Twitter.

"This means we have less than one million first doses to go before we hit 80 per cent."

Minor easing of Covid-19 restrictions will be triggered in Victoria at the 80 per cent single-dose target, which is forecast to be hit mid-week.

With AAP

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