Australia: Victoria to reduce COVID-19 controls statewide from 23:59 April 22 /update 73

Event

Victoria authorities plan to reduce restrictions statewide from 23:59 April 22 amid reduced COVID-19 activity. Authorities will end vaccine requirements for patrons and staff and check-in protocols to enter businesses. Companies will no longer need to employ a COVID marshal or apply for approval for events of more than 30,000 people. Officials will also lift facemask mandates for retail settings and events.

The government will also cease mandatory self-quarantine for close contacts of COVID-19 cases. However, people designated as close contacts must wear facemasks in public, take five rapid antigen tests (RATs) within the first seven days, and avoid sensitive settings. Close contacts who recovered from COVID-19 within the previous three months are exempt from testing requirements. Officials will permit unvaccinated returning residents to enter without quarantine and end on-arrival testing requirements for all asymptomatic passengers.

Local Measures
A facemask mandate continues for people eight years old and over for public transport, hospitals, and aged care facilities. The government requires people that test positive using a RAT to report their status to health officials. Residents that test positive for COVID-19 must self-quarantine for seven days but do not have to undergo testing before exiting quarantine.

Quarantine Requirements
Victoria permits entry for fully vaccinated travelers allowed under Australia's national guidelines. The measure also applies to children 12 years and 2 months old and below and individuals with a medical vaccine exemption. Permitted unvaccinated travelers from all locations must complete a Victorian Quarantine Arrival Form before departure and quarantine in government-designated facilities for seven days at their own expense. Current quarantine fees are AUD 1,500 for the first adult and AUD 500 for each additional adult or AUD 250 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 RAT Self-Reporting Form