Victorian businesses are shattered today after the Victorian Government left restrictions unchanged across metropolitan Melbourne following an outbreak in the northern suburbs.
While regional Victoria received some good news, with locals now permitted at gyms, pools, under 18 sport, funerals and religious services, questions remain on the efficacy of the Government's contact tracing system.
Despite Melbourne's 14-day average decreasing to 4.6, well below the State Government's threshold to move forward, Victoria's hard-hit hospitality, events, tourism, retail and fitness sectors remain effectively closed.
The Victorian Chamber will continue to represent businesses across the state to ensure all members and industries can get back to work safely soon.
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Paul Guerra:
"Today's announcement is a shattering blow to businesses, who have again been told to wait. It's like Groundhog Day, and has left businesses in limbo even though average case numbers are now below the Government's target for reopening.
"Victorians have done everything asked of them to reduce infections to an average of less than five new cases per day – meeting the Government's very cautious target for metropolitan Melbourne – only to see the goalposts move once again.
"The delay announced today can only point to a lack of confidence in the efficacy of the contact tracing system and the ability of health officials to manage the COVID-19 crisis."
