GRAB A PICNIC BASKET AND TASTE OF FREEDOM

FULLY-vaccinated Melburnians will be able to gather in bigger groups under new freedoms that will for the first time be given exclusively to those who have received both doses.

People yet to be vaccinated – or those with just one dose – can only gather with one other person under a slight easing of the city’s lockdown.

Premier Daniel Andrews gave the green light to picnics and outdoor social interaction for groups of two from Saturday, after the state was set to hit its 70 per cent first dose vaccination target.

But Melburnians who have received two doses will be able to gather in groups of up to five, plus dependants, from two households.

The 5km movement restriction will also extend to 10km, people will be able to spend up to four hours outside a day, and outdoor gyms and skate parks will reopen.

“We know this is what the community is craving – the notion of being able to see the people they love and care for,” Mr Andrews said.

Despite impending freedoms, Victoria on Thursday recorded its highest daily case figure since August 4 last year, with 514 local cases, including 366 mystery infections.