Mask mandate eases, work from home recommendation ends

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Masks will no longer be required in most indoor settings following an end to the work from home orders made by the Victorian Government.

From 11:59pm Friday February 25, masks will only be required in certain circumstances, including working in hospitals, correctional facilities or hospitality, on public transport or taxis and for primary school students in year three and above.

The government listed increasing vaccination rates and declining hospitalisation rates as the primary factors in changing pandemic recommendations.

“Victorians have done such a great job getting vaccinated, so we’re able to take safe steps to get more people to return to the office,” Minister for Health Martin Foley said.

Though not mandatory, masks are still recommended for workers facing members of the public, such as those working in reception, serving customers or greeting guests.

Remaining restrictions on elective surgeries are also set to lift on Monday February 28, with hospital capacity to be based on staff availability and COVID-19 demands.

Mr Foley also extended the deadline for workers required to receive three doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to March 25, provided that workers have a booking within that time.

Workers with a temporary medical exemption (because they had COVID-19) will need to receive their third dose within two weeks following the expiry of the exemption.