Australia: Officials extend lockdown measures in Greater Melbourne through 23:59 Aug. 19 /update 52

Event

Authorities have extended lockdown restrictions in Greater Melbourne through 23:59 Aug. 19 due to COVID-19 concerns. Stay-at-home measures will remain in place. Exemptions are possible for people purchasing essential goods, working in essential industries, receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, caregiving, and exercising. A travel limit of 5 km (3 miles) from residence remains in effect, except for people who are unable to access essential goods within that distance and working in essential industries, among others. Gatherings are banned. Workers must continue to telecommute as much as possible. Facemasks are mandatory in public areas.

The government lifted lockdown measures in regional Victoria 23:59 Aug. 9. Stay-home orders are no longer in effect, though travel to Melbourne remains restricted for essential reasons. Gatherings at home remain prohibited; outdoor gatherings may occur with a maximum of 10 people. Food establishments may open for seated service at a density limit of one person per four square meters (43 square feet). Facemasks remain mandatory in public.

Patrons to businesses must use the Service Victoria quick response (QR) code mobile application to check-in when visiting establishments. Businesses must provide an alternative check-in method for customers without smartphones. Companies that violate the order face fines of up to AUD 1,652.

Increased security is likely to enforce measures. Police could deploy additional personnel and set up checkpoints along main roads connecting Melbourne and other regions of Victoria. Rallies and marches against restrictions are possible.

Domestic Border Controls
Victoria continues to classify NSW as an extreme risk zone and requires all travelers from the state to seek an exemption before entry. Exceptions are possible for residents in extenuating circumstances but will likely have to self-quarantine 14 days from arrival. Individuals permitted to enter Victoria with a specified worker permit who has been in an extreme risk zone within the last 14 days must be tested for COVID-19 every three days.

Authorities designate the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), as well as Brisbane, Cairns, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redland, Scenic Rim, Somerset, Sunshine Coast and Yarrabah in Queensland as red zones, banning most nonresidents from entry. Residents and approved entrants from red zones must self-quarantine for 14 days and undergo COVID-19 testing on days 3 and 13.

The government classifies Norfolk Island as an orange zone. Arrivals from orange zones must undergo COVID-19 testing within 72 hours of entry and self-quarantine until they receive a negative result. All travelers to Victoria must apply for a Travel Permit before entry. Individuals entering Victoria without an exemption must quarantine for 14 days and may face fines of up to AUD 5,452.

Residents of cross-border community local government areas must obtain a permit to travel between Victoria and New South Wales (NSW) from 18:00 Aug. 13. Individuals may only cross the border for reasons like work, purchasing essential goods, seeking medical care, and receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.

Quarantine Requirements
Most international travelers entering Australia must quarantine at government-designated facilities for 14 days in the city of arrival. Victoria requires inbound travelers to complete a Victorian Quarantine Arrival Form before departure. The state charges travelers for quarantine, payable after the quarantine period. Quarantine fees are AUD 3,000 for the first adult and AUD 1,000 for each additional adult or AUD 500 for children above three years old.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security personnel.

Resources

Victoria Government
Victoria COVID-19 Reopening Roadmap
Victoria Department of Health and Human Services
Victoria Border Crossing Permit