Easing of COVID guidelines

The Victorian Government has set out a plan for the gradual easing of restrictions put in place to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). The first stage of this plan is already in place and I am writing to inform you that restrictions will soon be further eased for hospitality venues, auction houses and beauty and personal care services.

From 11.59pm on 21 June, cafes, restaurants and other hospitality businesses will be allowed to house up to 50 patrons per enclosed space. Groups of up to 20 people will also be allowed to dine in or drink together at the same table.

In addition, alcohol will be able to be served without a meal, but only when patrons are seated. Bars, pubs, clubs and strip clubs will be able to open for seated services only, provided tables are spaced 1.5 metres apart. Dance floors will remain closed.

Retail TABs and TAB facilities inside licensed premises may also reopen.     

Auction houses may have up to 50 customers per venue and real estate auctions and inspections can take place with up to 50 people. The four square metre rule applies and patrons need to be kept at least 1.5 metres apart.

Beauty therapy, tanning, waxing, nail salons, spas, tattoo parlours and massage parlours may continue to operate with up to 20 patrons and no more than one person for every four square metres of space. 

If staff have been working from home, they must continue to do so. Employers must support their staff to work from home if they can. If staff are required to be at the workplace, employers need to adhere to guidelines on physical distancing and increased cleaning. Actions employers can take to help reduce the risk of infection and slow the spread of coronavirus are available on the DHHS website. 

The Victorian Government will continue to support businesses through the $1.7 billion Economic Survival Package including Working for Victoria, payroll tax refunds and the night-time economy business support initiative. 

I encourage businesses seeking guidance on dealing with coronavirus (COVID-19) or further details on the support available to check the Business Victoria website business.vic.gov.au or call the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15.? 

This is a challenging time and I thank you and your members for continuing to follow the directions of Victoria’s Chief Health Officer and the Department of Health and Human Services. As always, we’re urging Victorians to use common sense in their activities. It’s up to all of us to make this work.

Barbara Cullen

Director | Small Business Victoria | Jobs, Innovation and Business Engagement
Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions
Mob: 0427 090 577
barbara.cullen@ecodev.vic.gov.au