Overview
In response to Melbourne's growing Holiday Inn COVID-19 cluster, the entire state of Victoria entered a five-day lockdown on Friday, February 12, which brought stage four restrictions back into effect. Come 11.59pm tonight, Wednesday, February 17, the stay-at-home period will end, but some restrictions will remain. And yes, you'll still be wearing face masks in most circumstances when you leave home.
Announcing the changes today, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said that "masks will continue to be a big part of our defence". So, you'll need to keep donning fitted face coverings whenever you're indoors, unless you're at home. Supermarkets and workplaces were named as two examples of places where you'll have to cover up, but the rule applies everywhere inside except when you're at your own house.
The amended mask requirement comes into effect when midnight hits tonight, and you'll also need to keep wearing them outdoors if you can't socially distance.
With Victorians allowed to have five people visit their houses each day from midnight tonight, the new rules clarify the recommendations there, too. It's strongly advised that you pop a mask on when you have folks over, with the Victorian Government particularly concerned about reducing the risk situations and settings it considers especially vulnerable.
If you're now wondering where to grab a fitted mask, we've put together a rundown of local companies making and selling them.
For more information about the status of COVID-19 and the current restrictions, head over to the Department of Health and Human Services website.