In an effort to control recent COVID-19 outbreaks, the Victorian Government has reintroduced Stage 3 Stay at Home restrictions across metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire. These restrictions will be in place for at least six weeks from 11.59 pm on 8 July.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.
What areas are affected?
The Stage 3 restrictions affect Mitchell Shire and all greater Melbourne local government areas (LGAs), including Mornington Peninsula. Restrictions apply to both the metropolitan and rural parts of these outer Melbourne LGAs. Greater Geelong is not included in the Stage 3 restrictions.
Outside of these areas, the Stay Safe restrictions apply. Check the DHHS restrictions map to see if your area is affected.
One public housing estate in North Melbourne remains under increased restrictions. Residents of this tower may not leave home for any reason. A hotline has been set up for information and should be the first point of contact for residents. Call 1800 961 054.
What restrictions apply?
People living in greater Melbourne and Mitchell Shire must follow the Stay at Home directions and may only leave home for four reasons:
- shopping for food and supplies that you need
- care and caregiving – including attending regular medical appointments
- exercise (outdoors, with one other person from your household)
- work and education – if you can’t do it from home.
Many businesses and services that have re-opened in recent weeks have now been closed in these areas. This includes:
- gyms, sports facilities and swimming pools
- libraries and community facilities (like community halls and RSL clubs)
- cafes, restaurants and pubs – except for takeaway
- places of worship
- galleries, museums, cinemas, theatres and other entertainment venues.
Victoria Police and Authorised Officers are conducting spot checks to make sure everyone is following the directions. Road blocks have been set up on some main roads in and out of the city.
Can I visit friends or family?
Melbourne and Mitchell Shire residents cannot have social visitors to their home. Visitors are only allowed if that person is providing care or essential services, but remember to practice good hygiene and keep physical distance between yourself and others. Partners that live separately can still visit each other at home.
I live in the restricted area – can I leave or visit country Victoria?
You can only leave a restricted area for three reasons:
- shopping for essential goods or services
- care or caregiving
- work or education, if you can’t do this from home.
Exercise and recreation are not reasons to leave Melbourne or Mitchell Shire.
Remember, your restriction levels travel with you. While you are outside of the restricted area, you still need to follow the same guidelines that would apply if you were at home. This means you can’t eat in a café or visit friends in regional Victoria, even though these activities are allowed elsewhere.
You can still travel within the Melbourne and Mitchell Shire area, but only for the four reasons listed above. Try to keep your activities close to home – if you want to exercise outdoors, visit a park near to your house rather than one further away.
I don’t live in Melbourne
You can still travel through Melbourne or Mitchell Shire if you need to, but try to plan your trip so you don’t need to stop. You can only stop or visit the area if you are shopping for essentials, getting care or caregiving, or to go to work if you can’t work at home. Exercise and recreation or social visits are not reasons to travel into a restricted area.
Should I still attend medical appointments?
Yes. You can leave home for care and caregiving – including visiting a health professional or buying medical supplies. You can travel into or leave a restricted area to access any of these services too. It is important you keep up with your regular medical appointments. If you don’t feel comfortable attending an appointment in person, contact your clinic to ask about telehealth consults.
Can I go to the shops?
Yes, you can go shopping for essential goods and services. Shopping for recreation or entertainment is not allowed. Try to shop locally if you can. Keep your distance from others and if practical, avoid going at busy times.
Anyone can visit a shopping centre in Melbourne or Mitchell Shire if it is to buy essential goods or services. If a service has been closed because of restrictions in your area, you can’t go and purchase this service in an area where it is still open.
Can I get deliveries or pick up online orders?
Yes, deliveries for online purchases or takeaways are still available as usual. Make sure you keep 1.5 metres between you and the delivery person. If your delivery is dropped at a post office, you can go to collect it. Many supermarkets offer click and collect options – you can leave home to pick these up.
More questions?
The Department of Health and Human Services website covers a wide range of questions, while our Resources for Older Victorians page offers general information for older Victorians. You can also call the National COVID Older Persons Information Line on 1800 171 866.
