Few gains in new restrictions

There were few gains, both socially and economically, when regional restrictions were eased slightly yesterday.

Hospitality was the biggest winner in regional areas while there was no relief for gym operators.

But, regional areas remain a significant step ahead of metropolitan areas, including Cardinia Shire residents.

Premier Daniel Andrews announced the new range of restrictions on Sunday and flagged further changes to come into effect from November 2.

Hospitality is the big winner in the eased restrictions that took effect in regional areas yesterday but indoor gym sessions remain on the banned list.

There was no relief for gym owners when Premier Daniel Andrews announced a further easing of current regional restrictions on Sunday.

While gym owners can continue outdoor sessions for up to 10 people, there was no indication inside gym classes will be held earlier than the roadmap’s end of November target.

At Sunday’s press conference, the premier said gyms were a high risk environment.

“It’s a very challenging environment. We are looking at it closely, but we can’t give them that news yet,” he said.

The new restrictions that came into play yesterday provided some joy for the hospitality sector who can now accommodate up to 40 customers inside (in four separate areas) and up to 70 outside if permitted space requirements are met.

Regional restrictions:

Social - up to two visitors to your home each day - dependents can attend if they cannot be left unattended or cared for in another setting. The two people may be from different households. This replaces the household bubbles.

Libraries and toy libraries – open for up to 20 people indoors.

Religious gatherings – outdoor for up to 20 people. This will increase to 50 people on November 2.

Indoor pools – open for people aged 18 and under, with a limit of 20 swimmers in the pool.

One parent/guardian/carer per child is permitted for supervision purposes and not included in the limit. Swimming classes can resume. One-on-one hydrotherapy sessions with a limit of 10 people in the pool at one time.

From November 1, non-contact indoor community sport can resume for under 18s, with a maximum of 20 people and limits on spectators. This also includes dance classes. Metropolitan restrictions:

No time limit for the period of time residents can leave their homes.

The five kilometre travel limit extended to 25km.

Social – up to 10 people from two households can gather in outdoor public areas.

Sport and recreation – tennis courts, golf courses, bowling greens open but a limit of 10 people from two households. Skateparks open. Outdoor pools will open to a maximum of 30 people.

Hairdressers – open

Real estate auctions – outdoor with a maximum of 10 people; inspections between one agent and one prospective purchaser.

Employment - outdoor non-essential home maintenance and repairs, including painting, outdoor pool and spa maintenance/cleaning, car washing, pet grooming, outdoor professional photography, solar panel installers. Allied health providers can return to work. Mr Andrews said additional changes to retail, hospitality and personal services will be announced from November 1.