Lockdowns and other public health measures

Case study - Melbourne, Australia

On 22nd March 2020, the Premier announced that the government will implement a shutdown of "all non-essential activity" across the state to combat the spread of Coronavirus within 48 hours.

"This is not something that we do lightly, but it’s clear that if we don’t take this step, more Victorians will contract coronavirus, our hospitals will be overwhelmed and more Victorians will die.

Victorians will still be able to go to the supermarket, the bank, the pharmacy and other essential stores, like petrol stations and convenience stores. Freight, logisitics and home delivery are also considered essential and will remain open.

I will also inform National Cabinet that school holidays will be brought forward in Victoria, starting on Tuesday 24 March."


On 28th March 2020, Melbourne entered into a Stage 3 lockdown, and all incoming international passengers were placed in hotel quarantine for 14 days.

Victoria Police has been given the power to issue on the spot fines of up to $1,652 for individuals and up to $9,913 for businesses:

  • If they fail to self-isolate for 14 days after arriving at an airport in Victoria from a flight originating from overseas, as set out in the Airport Arrivals Direction
  • If they organise or attend a mass gathering prohibited by the Prohibited Gatherings Direction
  • If they organise or attend a wedding that has present more than the two persons being married, the celebrant, and two witnesses, or a funeral that has more than 10 persons, as prohibited by the Prohibited Gatherings Direction
  • If they organise an auction for the sale of a residential property, as prohibited by the Non-Essential Activity Direction.

Overall compliance has been very good within Melbourne in my opinion.

to be continued...

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