The automotive industry in metropolitan Melbourne will reopen on 28 October after the government of Victoria moved the region to step three on its pathway to ‘COVID Normal’ for work, education and living.
The decision means the automotive industry will now reopen across Victoria, provided a COVIDSafe Plan is in place. There are no restrictions on reasons to leave home, however people living in the metropolitan area can still only travel 25 kilometres from their principal place of residence. Face masks are still required when outside the home. Employees are no longer required to carry a work permit unless they travel between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Every operating Victorian business must follow the following COVIDSafe principles to help prevent future outbreaks of COVID-19:
- Ensure physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres
- Wear a face mask
- Practice good hygiene
- Keep good records and act quickly if staff become unwell
- Avoid interactions in close spaces
- Create workforce bubbles
“Under the Third Step, Melbourne’s cafes, restaurants and pubs can reopen,” said Daniel Andrews, Premier of Victoria. “Outdoors with a limit of up to 50, indoors up to 20. Density limits, record keeping and COVIDSafe Plans also apply. Remaining retail will also open. Beauty and personal care services can resume. And for those businesses who need to get ready for their reopening – staff will be able to attend on-site straight away.”
“Workplaces will no longer need to be on the permitted work list to open and the ability to work will change to ‘if you can work from home you must work from home’.”
Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce CEO Geoff Gwilym said the organisation welcomes the government’s decision to ease business restrictions.
“The automotive industry is primed and ready for opening,” said Gwilym. “VACC has provided its members with exhaustive information, including assisting with COVIDSafe plans, creating communication templates, and resources for staff and customers.”