Victoria moves to stage three shutdown

AS coronavirus cases climb across the state so to do the limitations on non-essential indoor and outdoor gatherings with Premier Daniel Andrews introducing stage three restrictions as of yesterday. Under these measures, Mr Andrews said there are now only four reasons to leave the house. “To get medical care, to go to work, for your daily exercise and to go and buy the things you need when you need them,” he said at a press conference on Monday. Victorians face on-the-spot fines of more than $1600 for individuals and $9913 for businesses if they breach coronavirus restrictions with police now on the beat to enforce and monitor social distancing measures. "No gathering with friends is worth someone's life," Mr Andrews said. "Victoria Police will not hesitate to take action against you. That is how serious this is. No-one in my position enjoys doing this. We're not doing it for any other reason than this is life and death. If we allow our health system to be overrun, then people will die. "Unless you want to be burying an elderly relative or your best mate or your parents … then do the right thing." The stage three measures are in accordance with Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s announcement on Sunday night that the previous gathering limit of 10 people had been cut to two. The limit does not apply to people who live together. Weddings remain capped at five people and funerals 10 while outdoor gyms and skate parks closed on Monday. Outdoor boot camp has also been reduced to two people. Last week, Mr Morrison announced all elective and urgent category two surgeries would be suspended while all campsites, caravan parks and camping grounds across the state closed indefinitely. Vulnerable people have been advised to stay home as much as practical with Mr Morrison urging those aged over 70, those with a chronic illness and Indigenous Australians over the age of 50 to limit their interaction with others. “This does not mean they cannot go outside,” he said. “They can go outside and be accompanied by a support person for the purposes of getting some fresh air, some recreation, but they should limit contact with others as much as possible." Meanwhile, Alpine Shire locals now have access to telehealth consultations with their doctors. Telehealth consultations are virtual appointments conducted over the phone or video conferencing services. Patients can dial in to speak to their doctor and if a script is required, it will be faxed, emailed or posted to them or their pharmacist. The Federal Government has also taken to social media platforms to inform Australians about health advice and the measures being taken to tackle the coronavirus crisis. People can gain access to a new messaging service on WhatsApp by searching oz.gov.au/whatsapp or on the Apple app store. This article is based on the latest information provided by state and federal leaders as of Monday, March 30 4pm.

Victoria moves to stage three shutdown

Alpine Observer, Wednesday, 16 September, 2026

Help preserve the Murray cod's existence

Junior Saints rise to grand final in a heartstopper

Myrtleford Times, Wednesday, 16 September, 2026

Most popular stories

Alpine Observer, Wednesday, 16 September, 2026

Help preserve the Murray cod's existence

Junior Saints rise to grand final in a heartstopper

Myrtleford Times, Wednesday, 16 September, 2026