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How we work: Current restrictions

The Victorian Government has announced the lockdown will end at 11:59pm Tuesday 27 July.

On this page

From 11:59pm Tuesday 3 August

Group limits will be removed from food and drink facilities, physical recreation and sport (including gym classes) and from tours and tour transport. 

An overall venue cap of 100 people and density limits will continue to apply to food and drink facilities, with a cap of 25 and no density limit for those that are less than 100 sqm. 

Limits of 100 people per indoor space and 300 per outdoor space will continue to apply to physical recreation facilities, as will density requirements. Venue capacity limits will apply to tour groups entering a venue. 

The Commonwealth and Victorian Governments have announced a new, jointly funded business support package, delivering an additional $400 million in support to thousands of Victorian businesses.

For more information, visit Extra support for Victoria businesses.

 

To understand how the current restrictions affect your workplace, see the Frequently asked questions on this page. 

This page is your key resource for COVID-19 restrictions applying to businesses in Victoria. It replaces the FAQs and industry guidelines on the sector guidance pages. Check back here for information while the current restrictions are in place.

 

Key restrictions in Victoria

Category Restrictions in Victoria
Face masks
  • Must be carried at all times.
  • Must be worn indoors and outdoors, except at home or if a lawful reason not to wear one applies.
    • Lawful reasons may include having a physical or intellectual disability that makes mask wearing difficult or harmful to health.
      See the list of exceptions for further information. 
  • Must be worn on public transport and in commercial passenger vehicles
    (e.g., taxis and rideshares).

See the Face Mask page for further information.

Working from home

If you can work from home, you should work from home. 

Infants under 12 months

Infants under 12 months are not included in density quotients, capacity limits, or group limits.

Travel in Victoria
  • There are no restrictions on movement between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
  • Travellers must follow local restrictions.
  • Visitors travelling to a Victorian alpine resort must get a COVID-19 test within the 72 hours prior to the arrival at the resort (except children under 12 years). Visitors must carry evidence of their negative COVID-19 test result.
  • Alpine workers entering a Victorian alpine resort must get a COVID-19 test no more than seven days before entering the alpine resort. They must carry evidence of their negative COVID-19 test result and evidence that they are an alpine worker.
  • A test for COVID-19 is not required when accessing the alpine resort for emergency purposes, to escape harm or risk of harm (including related to family violence), or for essential and emergency work (if it is not practical to get tested prior to arriving). A test for COVID-19 is also not required for people with a disability, illness or chronic health condition that makes it impractical for them to get tested, for people who live at an alpine resort, for people attending school, or for people transporting a child to school at an alpine resort.
  • For further details on the requirements on people seeking to enter Victoria from any other State or Territory in Australia or a Green Zone Country, including those entering from a Red Zone or an Extreme Risk Zone, see the Victorian Travel Permit System. 
QR code requirements

Every business must use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service to check-in customers, workers and visitors, with some limited exceptions. Every visitor must check-in, no matter how long they are at the premises. The 15-minute threshold for checking-in no longer applies.

Kiosk check-in and alternative record keeping methods

  • Current requirements to provide an alternative record keeping method for members of the public (or employees) that do not have a smart phone remain. This could include a kiosk option (via a tablet) or, as a last resort, pen and paper.
  • The Kiosk check-in service in the Service Victoria app allows venues to check-in guests who don’t have a smartphone or can’t use the QR code service. The Kiosk enables workers to enter a customer’s name and contact phone number electronically, making it easier for contact tracers to contact people quickly if an outbreak occurs. 
  • Information collected using an alternative record-keeping method must be provided to Service Victoria if requested to do so by the Department or Service Victoria.

Displaying QR codes

  • All workplaces that are required to use QR codes must display the QR code in a prominent location at each point of entry.
  • In addition, hospitality venues must display QR codes at all points of sale (e.g. cash register) and at each table. Workers at hospitality venues must request a customer check-in using the QR code at a point of entry, at the point of sale (e.g., at a cash register) or a point of service (e.g., waiter attending a table). A point of service includes the tables within a food court.
  • Small retail facilities with less than 2000sqm of publicly accessible space (including market stalls) must also display QR codes at all points of sale. Staff at small retail facilities who interact with customers must also request that customers check-in at point of service; for example, when greeting a customer after they’ve entered the store, or at the cash register.
  • Large retail facilities (i.e. retail facilities with more than 2000sqm of publicly accessible space) must display QR codes at all points of sale. Workers at large retail facilities must also request that customers check-in at the main entrances. Markets and supermarkets are not considered large retail facilities for the purposes of this requirement. 
  • Supermarkets are required to request that customers check in at point of sale rather than point of entry. Supermarkets must have QR codes displayed at all points of sale and workers must request customers to check-in at the point of sale.
  • Markets must also display QR codes at all points of sale. Market workers do not need to request that customers check-in at the main entrances.

Workplace restrictions in Victoria

Accommodation

Camping ground, caravan park, hotel, hostel, bed and breakfast, private holiday rental facility, including Airbnbs, motel, serviced apartment.

Capacity restrictions 

Venue maximum: density quotient of one person per four square metres applies to communal spaces.

Note:

Bookings are subject to the private gathering limit and are permitted for:

  • the person making the booking, plus
  • the other members of their household, plus
  • the intimate partners of any members of their household, or
  • if the person making the booking lives alone, the booking can consist of that person, plus
  • their nominated bubble buddy (and children or dependants). 

Members of the public under different booking cannot share bedrooms.

In addition to the above:

  • accommodation providers may take bookings for emergency accommodation, refuge, shelter or relief purposes.
  • an exception to the density quotient and booking limit applies for exclusive use by a single school provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Dancefloors are closed. 

Community facilities

Community centre or community hall, public library (including toy library), youth centre. (See weddings below.)

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits

Indoor:

Outdoor

Note:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • No group limit.
  • Weddings or funerals may be held if they comply with the restrictions related to weddings and funerals (see further down table).
  • Exception to density quotient applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Exception to density quotient for essential support services such as a food bank (exception does not apply when facility is being used for support group meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous).
  • Dancefloors closed.

Outdoor playground, outdoor skatepark and outdoor communal exercise equipment.

Capacity restrictions
Open, no density quotient or venue maximum. 

Creative studios

Art studios, ceramic studios, music rooms or studios, rehearsal rooms or studios.

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits.

Indoor:

Outdoor:

Note:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • No group limit.
  • Exception to density quotient and venue maximum applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Dancefloors closed.

Education and childcare

Early childhood education and care, and schools

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • In spaces used only by workers and publicly accessible areas, a density quotient of one person per four square metres applies.
  • In spaces used by students, a density quotient does not apply.

Higher education and training

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • Density quotient of one person per four metres in spaces used only by staff and publicly accessible spaces.
  • In spaces used by students (e.g. classrooms), a density quotient does not apply.

Entertainment and functions

Theatres, cinemas (excluding drive-in cinemas), music halls, concert halls, auditoriums, galleries, museums, the State Library, arenas, stadiums, amusement parks, animal facilities (such as aquariums or zoos), convention centres, function facilities

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits.

Indoor

Outdoor

Note:

  • No group limit. 
  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Dancefloors closed.  
  • Exception to density quotient and venue maximum applies for exclusive use by a single school provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Cafés or similar settings within the venue must operate according to the restrictions for food and drink facilities.
  • Shops within the venue must operate according to the restrictions for retail.

Drive-in cinemas

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: Must be an outdoor space accessed by vehicles.

  • Patrons are not permitted to be seated outside of their vehicles.
  • Limits for food and drink facilities, and bathroom facilities, defined by a density quotient of one person per four square metres.

Note: 

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Patrons only permitted to leave a vehicle to access toilet facilities or a food and drink facility.

Arcade, escape rooms, bingo centres

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Dancefloors closed.

Brothel, sex on premises venue, sexually explicit entertainment venue

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Dancefloors closed.

Casino

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits.

Indoor

Outdoor

Note:

  • Every second gaming machine must be closed or 1.5 metres distance from other gaming machines.
  • A COVID Marshal must be onsite whenever the facility is operational. 
  • Additionally, a COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Security camera footage must be retained for at least 14 days from the day the footage is recorded.
  • A COVIDSafe Plan for the facility is published on the facility’s web site.
  • Dancefloors closed.

Gaming machine area

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • Every second gaming machine must be closed or 1.5 metres distance from other gaming machines.
  • A COVID Marshal must be on-site whenever the facility is operational. 
  • Additionally, a COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Patrons within the gaming area are included within the cap for the larger venue.

Karaoke facilities and nightclubs

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • Seated service only.
  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Dancefloors closed.

Retail betting venue

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: Density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.

Note: 

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Retail betting areas can open within a larger venue (such as a hospitality venue). However, members of the public within the retail betting area are included within the cap for the larger venue.

Food and drink

Café, restaurant, fast food store, cafeteria, canteen, winery, (indoor and outdoor spaces)

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: up to 25 patrons.
  • If more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: density quotient of one person per four square metres applies, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • Group limit of 10.
  • Seated service only.
  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Dancefloors closed.
  • Exception to density quotient and venue maximum applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).

Food courts

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: up to 25 patrons.
  • If more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: density quotient of one person per four square metres applies, up to 100 patrons.

Note:

  • No group limit.
  • A COVID Marshal must be on-site at all times.
  • Exception to density quotient and venue maximum applies for exclusive use by a single school provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).

Licensed premises

Pubs, bars, clubs, hotels

Capacity restrictions

Open for the following:

  • operating a bottle shop
  • providing food or drink in line with restrictions on food and drink facilities 
  • providing accommodation
  • operating a retail betting venue
  • operating a gaming machine area
  • operating a sexually explicit entertainment venue
  • operating a karaoke or nightclub facility.

See corresponding categories for the relevant restrictions that must be applied in each of these settings.

Offices

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

Physical recreation and community sport

A facility used predominantly for outdoor or indoor sport and physical recreation, a cardio or strength-training facility or a personal-training facility (e.g., gyms), whether stand-alone or part of another facility.

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits.

Indoor

Outdoor

Note:

  • Maximum group size of 10 patrons.
  • The group size limit includes only the participants in the sporting event. It does not include teachers, instructors, trainers, officials, coaches, carers, parents or guardians providing support to participants
  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  •  
  • An exception to the group limit applies to community sport; however, only the people needed torun the community sporting event can attend, which may include teachers, instructors, trainers, spectators, officials, coaches, carers, parents and guardians. General spectators are not permitted.
  • People employed by the facility are excluded from the capacity limits.
  • Training and competition is allowed.
  • General spectators are not permitted.
  • Any shared equipment must be cleaned between users.
  • Exception to density quotient, venue maximum and group size applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Exception to density quotient applies for exclusive use for professional or high-performance sport, provided only people who are necessary to conduct the event (including broadcasters) are present in the space.
  • Cafés or similar settings within the venue must operate according to the restrictions for food and drink facilities.

Real estate

Inspections and auctions.

Capacity restrictions

Auctions:

  • Attendance limit determined by a density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 100 patrons.
  • The limit excludes owners or residents of the property and a minimum number of people required to conduct or broadcast the auction.

Inspections:

  • By private appointment only
  • Attendance limit determined by a density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 10 patrons.
  • The limit excludes owners or residents of the property and a minimum number of people required to run the inspection.

Notes:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever an auction or inspection is taking place.

Religion and ceremonies

Places of worship (e.g., churches, synagogues, mosques, temples).

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits.

If more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space (indoor and outdoor):

If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space (indoor and outdoor):

  • Up to 25 attendees.

Note:

  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all public entrances whenever the facility is operational.
  • Exception to density quotient applies if hosting an essential support service such as a food bank (exception does not apply when facility is being used for support group meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous).
  • Exception to density quotient applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • No food, drink, crockery, utensils, vessels or other equipment are permitted to be shared. However, food or drink can be served for the purpose of hospitality before or after a religious gathering. For example, providing tea, coffee and refreshments.
  • Dancefloors closed.

Funerals

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum (including places of worship): Density quotient of one person per four square metres, up to 50 attendees (not including those required to conduct the funeral).

Private residence: permitted in line with private gathering limits of up to five members of the public (the following people are permitted, in addition to this five person limit: the minimum number of people necessary to conduct the funeral, any person who normally resides at the premises, and their intimate partners).

Note: 

  • Other COVIDSafe requirements, including electronic record keeping requirements, are the same as for the venue where the funeral is held.

Weddings

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum (including places of worship): up to 50 people (including the two people being married and the two witnesses). The authorised celebrant, and the wedding photographer are not included in the limit.

Private residence: Permitted in line with the private gathering limit. The minimum number of people necessary to conduct the wedding can attend in addition to the private gathering limit.

Note:

  • Dancefloors closed.  
  • Other COVID Safe requirements, including record keeping requirements, are the same as for the venue where the wedding is held.
  • Face masks may be removed by the couple being married during the ceremony and for photographs.

Retail

Auction houses

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: up to 25 patrons.
  • If more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space, density quotient of one person per four square metres.

Note:

  • Auction houses are classed as a retail premises, so must adhere to same electronic record keeping and other requirements as retail premises. See the QR code requirements row of the Key Restrictions Table above for more information about your obligations.

Hairdressing, beauty and personal care facility

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: up to 25 patrons.
  • If more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space, density quotient of one person per four square metres.

Note:

  • A customer’s face mask may be removed for a service if wearing it would impede the service (e.g., beard trimming).
  • The person performing the service must wear a face mask.
  • Check the QR code requirements row of the Key Restrictions Table above for more information about your record keeping obligations.

General retail (including retail stores, retail shopping centres, markets and market stalls)

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum:

  • If less than 100sqm of publicly accessible space: up to 25 patrons.
  • If there is more than 100sqm of publicly accessible space, a density quotient of one person per four square metres applies. 

Note:

  • Check the QR code requirements row of the Key Restrictions Table above for more information about your record keeping obligations.

Swimming

Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hydrotherapy pools, spas, saunas, steam rooms, and springs.

Capacity restrictions

Venue maximum: sum of space limits

Indoor

Outdoor

Note:

  • COVID Check-in Marshal must be present at all entrances during operations
  • Maximum group size of 10 patrons.
  • The group size limit includes only the participants in the sporting event. It does not include teachers, instructors, trainers, officials, coaches, carers, parents, or guardians providing support to participants.
  • People employed by the facility are excluded from the capacity limits. 
  • Training and competition are allowed.
  • Any shared equipment must be cleaned between users.
  • An exception to the group limit applies for community sport. All other requirements must be adhered to and only the minimum number of people must be present to facilitate the activity. 
  • No general spectators allowed.
  • Exception to density quotient, venue maximum and group size applies for exclusive use by a single school, provided only students and staff attend (no other guests).
  • Exception to the density quotient and group size requirements for swimming and water safety lessons.
  • Exception to density quotient applies for exclusive use for professional or high-performance sport, but only people who are necessary to conduct the event (including broadcasters) are present in the space.
  • Cafés or similar settings within the venue must operate according to the restrictions for food and drink facilities.
  • Shops within the venue must operate according to the restrictions for retail.

Tourism

Indoor and outdoor tourism services including hiking, walking, horseback riding and bicycle tours

Capacity restrictions

Licensed tourism service maximum:

  • Maximum of 10 members of the public in a tour group at any one time.
  • Maximum of 10 members of the public in a vehicle at any one time.
  • Only one tour group to attend same indoor or outdoor space, unless a reasonable distance can be maintained at all times
  • Venue and space limits including density quotients apply when tours enter or pass through venues.
  • Public gathering limits apply to tours undertaken in a public place

Note:

  • Only the minimum number of workers or volunteers can conduct tourism services. Workers or volunteers are not included in the caps on members of the public.
  • Record keeping requirements are the same as for the venue where the tourism service is taking place.
  • Face masks must be worn inside transport vehicles unless a lawful reason not to wear one applies.

Restriction changes for industries with additional obligations

Venue/facility Capacity restrictions
Poultry, meat and seafood processing facilities, and abattoirs No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Supermarkets and perishable food work premises No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Warehousing and distribution centres No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Australian air transport operators No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Care facilities See Visiting care facilities. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Commercial cleaning services No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Commercial passenger vehicle services No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Horticulture operations using seasonal workers for seasonal horticulture work No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Hospitals No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Hotel quarantine No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.
Ports of entry servicing international arrivals No change from 15 July restrictions. Authorised Provider and Worker List no longer applies.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

General business FAQs

Can businesses refuse to serve someone if they are not wearing a face mask? 

Businesses should not refuse service to patrons without a face mask, who may have a lawful reason for not wearing one. For more information, visit Face masks and human rights. 

Am I required to wear a mask at work? 

Yes, workers must wear a face mask when leaving the home, including in the workplace, unless a lawful reason not to wear one applies. Find out more information about face masks. 

Does a density quotient apply during the current restrictions? 

Yes, a density quotient of one person per four square metres applies in all premises and spaces that are open and accessible to the public, and in shared spaces within workplaces (such as lunchrooms).  

A density quotient is the number of people allowed in each space. It is designed to support physical distancing between people to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission.   

Workers in publicly accessible spaces are counted in the density quotient if they are in the space on an ongoing basis (and not on an ad hoc basis).  

 

Record keeping FAQs

Are there exceptions to record keeping and QR code requirements? 

Yes, but they are limited. Read more about the limited exceptions to record keeping and QR code requirements.  

I operate a service station. Do I need to use the Victorian Government QR Code Service?

Yes. All businesses in Victoria with on-site operations must use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service. All customers and workers entering a premises such as a service station must check-in with the Service Victoria app. Check-in is not required where a customer does not enter the service station by making a contactless payment at the bowser.  
 
Business owners must display QR codes at entrances and points of service, and request customers check-in. For further information see About the free Victorian Government QR Code Service. 
 
Do ‘click-and-collect’ services need to keep records or use the Victorian Government QR code? 

‘Click-and-collect’ services that do not require the customer to enter the premises, are not required to keep records, although it is encouraged.

If the customer enters the premises, they must check-in using the Service Victoria app. For further information see About the free Victorian Government QR Code Service. 
 

What are the fines for businesses for not following QR code requirements?   

Business owners face on-the-spot fines of $1817 if they fail to comply with electronic record keeping requirements. When a business is repeatedly non-compliant, the business owner can face a further fine of $10,904. For continued, blatant or wilful non-compliance, a business owner may face prosecution.  

I run a business. How do I comply with the Victorian Government QR Code requirements?

Maintaining good records and supporting checking in at your business helps to stop the spread of coronavirus and keeps our state safe. All businesses required to use electronic record keeping must now use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service.

If your business does not have a physical workplace (that is, a premises that the business owns or controls) you do not need to keep records or register with the Victoria Government QR Code Service. However, you are required to check-in at locations you visit as part of your work.

It is recommended that you maintain a record of locations you visit as part of your work and the time you were there, in case contract tracing is required. Remember to check in everywhere, every time where Service Victoria QR codes are used.

Workplaces that must use the Victorian Government QR Code Service must make reasonable efforts to ensure people check-in.

Businesses must register for the free Victorian Government QR Code Service and display a Service Victoria QR code prominently at each entrance to the work premises. Additional requirements apply to hospitality, retail, supermarkets, markets, and market stall worksites. For more information, visit About the free Service Victorian QR Code app.

The workplaces that are required to implement the Service Victoria QR Code system must also provide an alternative record-keeping method for people who do not have a smartphone and cannot scan the Service Victoria QR code. This could include providing a device, such as a tablet, and using the Kiosk check-in service in the Service Victoria app, which allows workers to enter a customer’s name and phone number manually. Or you can use pen and paper as a last resort to record the person’s first name, last name, and phone number.

How do I comply with the Victorian Government QR Code Service requirements if I have a permanent worksite, temporary worksite or mobile worksite?

Permanent worksite
Any permanent worksite such as an office must display the Service Victoria QR code in a place that allows visitors to easily check in, including at each entrance. If you have multiple permanent worksites (for example, two offices and a showroom) you must register for a different QR code at each worksite.

Temporary worksite
A long-term temporary worksite, such as a construction site, must display a Service Victoria QR code in the same way as a permanent worksite. Every customer, worker and visitor must check-in. If you have multiple temporary worksites you must register for a different QR code for each worksite. 

Mobile worksite
Mobile worksites, such as a food or coffee truck, must display a Service Victoria QR code in a location on the vehicle (that is, at the window where customers order).  When workers interact face-to-face with a customer, they should ask them to check-in using the Service Victoria QR code in the same way they would if they were entering a business. Your workers do not need to use a different QR code as they move locations, but if you have multiple mobile worksites (that is, multiple trucks) you must register for a different QR code for each mobile worksite. 

How do I comply with the Victorian Government QR Code Service requirements if my workers visit customers’ homes? 

If you or your workers visit customers’ or clients’ homes, you do not need to provide a QR code for the residents or customers to check-in. This is because a customer’s home is not a workplace that the employer controls.  

What is required at shopping centre entrances to encourage customers to check-in?

Shopping centres and large retail facilities should endeavour to ensure that everyone checks-in with the Service Victoria QR code. Shopping centres and large retail facilities are required to have QR codes prominently displayed at all entrances.  Staff members must request that customers check-in using the Service Victoria app as they enter main entrances (entrances with high volumes of foot traffic).  Shopping centres and large retail facilities should also consider other methods of reminding customers to check-in, such as regular PA announcements and signage in busy walkways.

Large retail facilities are defined as those with greater than 2000 square metres of publicly accessible floorspace.
 

Interstate travel FAQs

If I am required to get a COVID-19 test for work or essential travel, can I get tested without having symptoms?  

Yes. If you’re getting a COVID-19 test for work or essential travel, you need to get tested even if you do not have any symptoms.

 

Industry FAQs

Allied health FAQs

I operate an allied health private practice. Do I need to use the Victorian Government QR Code Service in my workplace? 
 
Yes, all businesses in Victoria must use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service in the workplace, except for essential support groups and health services where confidentiality is typically required. These exceptions do not apply to allied health private practices unless they are providing services that require confidentiality (for example, to survivors of family violence or child protection clients).

Given the transmission risks posed by primary care practitioners and settings, allied health private practices must ensure they adhere to their record keeping obligations. Businesses who are not using the Victorian Government QR Code Service at their premises risk fines.

See About the free Service Victoria QR Code app for further information and a full list of exceptions.

I operate an allied health private practice from my residential address. Can I continue to operate?

Yes, if this is your usual place of business. However, telehealth remains the preferred method of service delivery wherever clinically appropriate.

COVIDSafe requirements apply to your business. These include having a COVIDSafe Plan and complying with requirements on record keeping, density quotients, face masks and cleaning.

You must make sure clients know they are not to attend their appointment if they are unwell or show any symptoms of COVID-19, however mild. They should stay home and get tested. If they do attend while unwell, you must have a procedure to manage this.

It is recommended that the practice:

  • be a separate entry from the residence and
  • have separate space, with separate facilities from the residence.

All COVIDSafe principles should apply to the work premises, including maintaining physical distancing where possible and encouraging regular hand hygiene. 

I operate an allied health private practice. What are the density quotients for my premises under current restrictions? 
 
A density quotient of one person per four square metres applies to all healthcare premises, except hospitals. This requirement extends to treating rooms, staff offices, administration offices and waiting areas.

I operate an allied health private practice. Can I provide group therapies or interventions? 

Yes, face-to-face group interventions are permitted. However, we recommend providing individual interventions where possible.

Telehealth remains the preferred method of service delivery wherever clinically appropriate.

 

Alpine resorts FAQ's

What are the COVID-19 test requirements for Victorian alpine resorts? 

Visitors and workers must receive a negative COVID-19 test result before arriving at a Victorian Alpine Resort to be allowed entry. This does not apply to children under 12 years of age. 

  • Visitors must have a COVID-19 test no more than 72 hours before arriving at an alpine resort. Visitors must get retested if they leave and re-enter the alpine resort, and more than 72 hours has passed since taking the COVID-19 test. 
  • Workers must have a COVID-19 test no more than seven days before entering an alpine resort. Workers must get re-tested if they leave and re-enter the alpine resort and more than seven days has passed since taking the COVID-19 test. 

Exceptions to the COVID-19 test requirement for Victorian alpine resorts apply when a person: 

  • is required to travel to an alpine resort to deliver an essential service, for emergency purposes or to escape harm or risk of harm (including harm relating to family violence or violence of another person at the alpine resort), and it is not possible to take the test
  • cannot take a COVID-19 test because of a disability, illness or medical condition 
  • ordinarily resides at the alpine resort, or 
  • travels to or through the alpine resort to attend school or transport a child to a school. 

Alpine resort staff, authorised officers or Victoria Police may ask to see evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result such as a text message, email, or print copy. Workers must provide evidence of a negative test within seven days of entering an alpine resort. Workers must also show evidence of employment at the resort such as a letter from their employer or a payslip. 

Visitors and workers are not allowed to enter Victorian alpine resorts without proof of a negative COVID-19 test. 

If someone is travelling to multiple resorts, or up and down the mountain because they are staying off-mountain, they must still show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result in line with the above requirements. 

Arts and entertainment FAQs

How is a discrete outdoor space defined at an outdoor non-seated entertainment venue, such as the zoo? 

A discrete outdoor space means a space where crowds gather outside as an audience or participants in a shared activity. The crowding should be intended rather than incidental.  

In a zoo, for instance, a discrete outdoor space would be an amphitheatre where an animal demonstration takes place or outside an enclosure during a scheduled animal feeding. But it would not include the shared footpath between amphitheatres or a track outside an animal exhibit. 

In these cases, there is a density quotient of one person per four square metres but no capacity limit. For seated outdoor spaces that do not form a discrete outdoor space the seated capacity limit is 300 people (with a group limit of 10 people). For non-seated outdoor spaces there is no capacity limit. 

 

Construction FAQs

Is building, construction and renovation work allowed to continue?   

Yes. All indoor and outdoor construction and renovation work can continue at occupied and unoccupied premises. 

Office-based work is capped at 25 per cent or a maximum of 10 people, whichever is greater. A density quotient of one person per four square metres applies in shared spaces and publicly accessible areas. 

Workers must wear a face mask indoors and outdoors at all times, unless they have a lawful reason not to wear one.  

 

Creative studios FAQs

What is the definition of a creative studio? 

A creative studio is a workplace for artists or other creative professionals.  
It is a dedicated space and may include specialised equipment, such as lighting, sound or editing equipment, or facilities, such as a sprung floor.  

Creative studios may include those for visual arts and craft, recording, game development, fashion design and rehearsals of drama, dance or music).

 

 

 

Offices FAQs

Do I need to reintroduce workforce bubbles and ensure physical distancing in the office? 

No, you do not need to reintroduce workforce bubbles for office workers, but workers should maintain 1.5 metre physical distancing where possible.  

Which workers count as part of the return to office cap? 

All workers, employees, subcontractors (and their workers), and volunteers are counted as part of the cap.  

Workers on site because they cannot work from home are not included when calculating your return to office.

 

Pet and animal welfare FAQs 

Can pet groomers continue to operate? 

From 11:59 pm on Tuesday 20 July 2021, mobile pet grooming services are permitted to operate if they:  

  • have an Australian Business Number (ABN)
  • can operate solely outdoors
  • can operate in a contactless way, and
  • can maintain physical distancing at all times.

From 11:59 pm on Tuesday 27 July 2021, all forms of pet grooming services may operate. 
 
I am a dog walker, can I continue my work? 

Dog walking services are permitted if they operate in a contactless way. Dog walkers should maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres at all times and must wear a face mask indoors and outdoors, unless they have a lawful reason not to wear one. 

 

Property, real estate and strata FAQs

Do owners’ corporations of residential buildings need to use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service? 

Yes. Owner’s corporation must use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service through the Service Victoria app. Residents, workers and visitors are only required to check-in if they access areas such as gyms, pools, cinemas and other communal facilities. They are not required to check-in to access individual residential apartments or common property areas such as lifts, foyers, and hallways. 

To reduce the spread of COVID-19, residents, and visitors are encouraged to wear face masks when in common areas of the building. Workers must wear a face mask indoors and out.  

For more information about QR codes, please see Checking in with QR Codes. 

Can auctions operate during the current restrictions?  

Yes, indoor and outdoor auctions can be held on-site with a density quotient of one person per four square metres or 100 members of the public, whichever is fewer. A COVID Check-in Marshal must be onsite at all times to ensure attendees check-in using the free Victorian Government QR Code Service through the Service Victoria app. For more information about QR codes, please see Checking in with QR Codes. 

The minimum number of people required to conduct and broadcast the auction and the owners and residents of the property are not included in the density quotient. 

Can inspections times be advertised? 

Yes, if the inspection is conducted in line with current restrictions. An appointment is required.   

Can inspections for appraisals for sale be conducted? 

Yes, but the inspection must be conducted in a contactless way. Only the minimum number of people required to undertake the appraisal are permitted on-site.  

Can styling and professional photos or videos be taken for marketing purposes? 

Yes, photographic or video services are permitted for work purposes. Photo shoots and condition reports are permitted in consultation with residents. Any necessary marketing services (for example, photography, videography, stylists and rental furniture providers) should be limited to one agent and one service provider. Agents should not accompany the service provider unless necessary for access.  

Can inspections operate during the current restrictions?  

Yes, real estate inspections for purchasing or renting a property may operate in line with the following restrictions:  

  • All inspections must be by private appointment only. 
  • A COVID Check-in Marshal must be onsite at all times to ensure attendees check-in using the free Victorian Government QR Code Service through the Service Victoria app.
  • The maximum number of people permitted during an inspection is limited to a density quotient of one person per four square metres or 10 people, whichever is fewer (infants under 12 months are excluded). This does not include people present to facilitate the inspection. For example, if the density quotient allows for eight people, and there is also a real estate agent running the inspection, the total number of people permitted is nine. 

For more information about QR codes, please see About the free Service Victoria QR Code app.
 

Retail trade FAQs

Are retail businesses required to display a Victorian Government QR code? 

Yes. All businesses in Victoria must use the free Victorian Government QR code Service, unless an exemption applies. 

All retail customers, workers and visitors must check-in with the Service Victoria app, no matter how long they are at the premises. A 15-minute threshold for checking in no longer applies.  

Business owners who are not using the Victorian Government QR Code Service at their premises risk fines. 

Having access to fast and accurate contact information for anyone who has visited a COVID-19 public exposure site is vital to help contact tracers contain an outbreak quickly.

Retail businesses include supermarkets, retail stores, retail shopping centres, and markets or market stalls.  

The QR codes on display should be at least 100 square millimetres at the entrances and 50 square millimetres at points of sale. You can download your QR codes when you register for the free Victorian Government QR Code Service.  You can also download other COVIDSafe posters, signs and templates. 

My business offers ‘click and collect’ for customers. Is it mandatory for ‘click and collect’ customers to check in using the Victorian Government QR Code Service?  

‘Click and collect’ customers must check in using the Service Victoria app if they enter a venue at any point or spend any time in an assigned indoor collection area while waiting to collect their purchase.  

You should display the Victorian Government QR Code at the entrance of the collection area. For instructions on using the free Victorian Government QR Code Service, please go to QR code app and digital record keeping for contact tracing. 

Do businesses need to record the details of ‘drive-through’ or ‘drive-and-collect’ customers?

No. Customers who visit your premises for the sole purpose of collecting takeaway food at a drive-through window do not have to check-in, although it is encouraged. 

Similarly, customers who ‘drive-and-collect’ goods other than takeaway food are not required to check-in as long as they do not enter the venue or leave their car, and use a contactless form of collection. 

 

Sport, exercise and physical recreation FAQs

Can dance classes take place even though ‘dancefloors’ are closed?

Yes, dance classes can take place in dance studios and community and creative arts facilities.  A COVID Check-in Marshal must monitor all entrances, ensuring people check-in.

The closure of ‘dancefloors’ refers to settings where people meet to dance and socialise, such as nightclubs, dancefloors at bars, and at other entertainment venues. It does not refer to venues where dance classes occur.

Is training for professional sport allowed under current restrictions?  

Yes, training for professional sport is allowed. 

Who is included as a professional or high-performance sportsperson?  

A professional sportsperson means a person who meets one or more of the following criteria: 

  • performs their sporting activity in an open-aged national or international competition (at the highest level as identified by the recognised national body)
  • employed to perform that sporting activity as their primary source of income (that is, employed by a professional club or recognised national body)
  • holds a National Institute Network Scholarship or equivalent level national categorised athlete.

Can I continue to play community sport under the current restrictions? 

Yes, community sport is open for all ages, training and competition. A density quotient of one person per four square metres applies.  

Community sport is limited to the minimum number of people required to participate in and facilitate the activity. This includes teachers, instructors, trainers, coaches, umpires, and carers, parents and guardians supporting a person with a disability. 

General spectators are not permitted. 

 

Tourism and accommodation FAQs

If a business needs to book multiple rooms at an accommodation facility, is this classified as one booking or several?  

A booking refers to a single room or premises. There may be several bookings in one transaction. Where a business books multiple rooms for its workers in one hotel, these are considered different bookings.  

 

Other FAQs

What are the restrictions for home-based businesses?  

Home-based businesses must follow the rules that apply to their industry workplace. This includes:  

 
Home-based businesses should ensure workers get tested for COVID-19 if unwell (even if they show only mild symptoms).  

Are indoor home services allowed under current restrictions? 

Yes, indoor home services (such as domestic cleaners and trades people) are permitted at occupied and unoccupied homes. Workers must wear a face mask indoors and outdoors, unless they have a lawful reason not to wear one and should maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres at all times.  

Are there any restrictions to cleaning, maintenance and service works? 

No. All aspects of maintenance and service works can continue. This includes indoor work. 

Workers must wear a face mask indoors and outdoors, unless they have a lawful reason not to wear one. 

Can display homes, sales suites, and colour selection centres open?  
  
Yes, these are allowed to open, but must operate under a density quotient of one person per four square metres.  

If a building is used as a place of worship and by community groups for non-religious purposes, is it a community facility or a place of worship for the purposes of capacity limits? 

The relevant capacity limit on a building will generally depend on what it is being used for. When a building is being used for religious activities, it is a place of worship, and the capacity limit for places of worship applies. When a community group uses the same building as a community centre, community hall or youth centre, the building is a community facility. When used as a community facility, the venue may open in line with community facilities capacity limits. For a list of up-to-date restrictions and capacity limits on venues and facilities, please see the restriction table. 

Can car washes open?   

Car washes (including those operating as part of petrol stations) are permitted to operate.  

Are commercial car parks allowed to open?  

Car parks are permitted to operate.  

Are letter box drops allowed to continue? 

The delivery of pamphlets and advertising material to outdoor mailboxes may continue.  

Workers must wear a face mask indoors and outdoors, unless they have a lawful reason not to wear one, and should maintain physical distancing of 1.5 metres at all times. 

 

Reviewed 03 August 2021

COVID-19 business support

The Business Victoria hotline provides information on restrictions and support to help your workplace plan and respond to COVID-19.

Call Business Victoria on 13 22 15

Contact Business Victoria

24/7 Coronavirus Hotline

If you suspect you may have COVID-19 call the dedicated hotline – open 24 hours, 7 days.

Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.

1800 675 398
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