Victoria's Face Mask Rules Are Relaxing Again But You'll Still Need to Carry One with You

If a stint of shopping is on your weekend agenda, expect to see plenty of smiles while you're browsing and buying. Victoria's mask rules are easing again come 6pm on Friday, March 26 — and you'll no longer need to cover your face while you're perusing the aisles.

Donning masks indoors at shopping centres, and in retail stores inside shopping centres — including department stores, electronics stores, furniture stores, hardware stores and supermarkets — will no longer be compulsory. Nor will wearing them at indoor markets. That'll be the case no matter the size of the space, too.

Instead, you'll just have to wear masks on public transport, and when using ride shares or other commercial passenger vehicles, such as taxis. They're still mandatory in these situations, and in aged care facilities and hospitals as well.

As has proven the case when mask requirements have eased in the past, you will need to carry one with you at all times, though. And, if you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or you're suspected of having it, you have to mask up if you're leaving your house for an allowed reason — such as getting medical care. Your close contacts will have to pop masks on as well.

Acting Premier James Merlino said made the announcement about masks today, Tuesday, March 23, as part of a press conference about eased COVID-19 restrictions in general. A heap of current rules are changing, including allowing more people to gather in homes, in public and at venues.

If you're still wondering where to grab a mask, we've put together a rundown of local companies making and selling them.