In the latest round of liquidation restrictions, which both states have adopted with slightly different conditions, close household contacts will be allowed to leave the home but must still take regular rapid antigen tests.
In both states, a positive case of COVID-19 must still isolate for seven days. Here’s what we know about relaxation constraints:
What is changing today due to the COVID-19 restrictions in NSW and Victoria?
NSW and Victoria are relaxing their COVID-19 restrictions that require a household contact (i.e. someone who lives in the same household as a positive COVID-19 case) to self-isolate for seven days.
The rules also apply to people who have been considered a close contact.
When are restrictions relaxed?
In NSW, family and close contacts will no longer need to self-isolate for seven days from 6pm on Friday 22 April.
In Victoria, household and close contacts will no longer need to self-isolate for seven days from 11:59 p.m. on Friday 22 April.
Does that mean domestic contacts can just live their lives freely?
No. Although the mandatory isolation period is eliminated, some conditions still remain.
In NSW, household contacts must wear a face mask in all indoor settings outside the home, take a rapid antigen test daily, and are not allowed to visit nursing homes, hospitals, correctional or disability facilities.
In Victoria, household contacts must also wear a face mask when outside the home but in an indoor setting, must avoid all “sensitive” settings such as hospitals and elderly care facilities, and must take five rapid antigen tests over the course of seven days.
What about people who test positive for COVID-19?
In both NSW and Victoria, people who test positive for COVID-19, either through a rapid antigen or PCR test, are still required to isolate for seven days.
If I am considered a family contact, can I still go to work?
Most likely, but it depends.
In NSW, it is recommended that domestic contacts work from home “where practical”. Critical or essential workers will not be required to have a formal exemption, but must still comply with the rules established by their employer.
Your questions about COVID-19 answered
In Victoria it is also recommended that close contacts work from home if possible. Masks are still “strongly recommended” when a person cannot physically distance themselves.