Restrictions To Ease In Victorian Venues This Week

Victoria is introducing more relaxed COVID-Safe measures from 6pm this Friday, 26 March. 

Live music venues in particular will be affected with an increase in the amount of people allowed in venues. 

According to a statement released by the Victorian State Government today, "additional people will also be allowed in indoor non-seated entertainment venues with an increase from 50 per cent to 75 per cent capacity however, the limit of 1000 people per space remains. Dancefloors will move to the same density limit of the venue and the 50 patron cap will also be removed". 

Additionally "density limits in venues still operating under more restrictive settings – like casinos, karaoke venues and nightclubs – will move from 1 person per 4sqm to 1 person per 2sqm" in line with cafes, pubs and restaurants.

The changes were announced by Acting Premier James Merlino and Minister For Health Martin Foley in a press conference today, with Victoria's reduced exposure risk and low community transmission cited as the reason for the restrictions easing. 

Other changes include masks no longer being in retail settings and with home and outdoor gatherings increased to 100 and 200 people respectively. Offices will return to greater capacities, while AFL crowds will increase to 75 percent capacity.   

The news comes just a day after the issuing of Australian Live Music Business Council (ALMBC)'s member survey report which found that "almost 70% of live music businesses have seen their revenue drop by 75-100% since lockdowns began" and that "77% of businesses will only survive the next six months unless trading conditions improve". 

See the report here.