Due to ongoing concern about COVID-19 outbreaks, the Premier of Victoria, the Hon Daniel Andrews MP has announced that face coverings will be mandatory in metro Melbourne and Mitchell Shire for everyone aged 12 years and older from 11:59pm on Wednesday, 22 July.

Fines of $200 will apply for those who are out in public and not wearing a face covering. There are exemptions including eating and drinking, for strenuous exercise such as running or jogging, people with disabilities or deaf people who need to lip read for communication.

Those in Regional Victoria are encouraged, but not required to wear face coverings.

For retail staff, face coverings which cover the nose and mouth of the individual are required for all workers living or working in the nominated areas. If you are an ARA member experiencing any difficulty obtaining sufficient masks for your workplace, please contact the ARA membership team on 1300 368 041.

Retail staff should remind customers to wear a face covering within their store and should refuse entry to customers not wearing one. However, retailers are not responsible for issuing fines or regulating the wearing of face coverings in any other way. If any difficulties arise, retailers can contact the local police.

The full announcement from the Premier can be found here.