Highlights
- Travelling restriction of up to 5 km radius are still in place
- Outdoor gatherings with no more than five people from two households are allowed
- The reopening playgrounds and childcare centres have also been announced
As Victoria continues to record a decline in the rate of new COVID-19 cases, Melbourne has entered the second step of its recovery roadmap enabling 127,000 people to rejoin the workforce.
While some industries are reopening and workplaces are slowly increasing their capacity, some residents say the changes to the restrictions haven't gone far enough.
Speaking to SBS Punjabi, Harjit Singh who lives with his family in Craigieburn in North Melbourne says while some restrictions may have eased, the changes aren't significant as they are still not allowed to move beyond the radius of 5 km from their primary residence.
“We live in Craigieburn and we cannot even go to visit our daughter in Caroline Springs because of the 5 km travelling radius rule that is still in place.
Harjit Singh Source: Supplied
“While we understand that the government is taking a slow and steady approach, they should have at least doubled the radius so we can get some air," he says.
Manpreet Brar, who lives in Hillside says he is happy with whatever little relaxation the government is offering.
He says while the fact that he and his wife can now both go out for grocery shopping has brought ease to his daily routine, it also at the same time allows his wife to venture out as she has been forced to remain indoors ever since stage 4 restrictions were put in place since she cannot drive.
“The good thing is that the government has lifted the restrictions allowing more than one person per household to go out for shopping. I am glad that now my wife who cannot drive also has a reason to step out of the house and get some fresh air while we shop for grocery," he says.
Parul Sehgal from Tarneit who has two young children says it has been particularly hard for mothers to entertain kids at home as playgrounds remained off-limits.
Melbourne entered the second stage to its coronavirus roadmap by easing restrictions on kid's playgrounds Source: Getty Images
She says while the safety of the children remains paramount, she is happy that the playgrounds have reopened which will give her kids a chance to blow off some steam.
"Life in lockdown has been really tough with kids not being able to go out and socialise with other children of their age.
"Now as a parent, I am a bit relieved with the reopening of the playgrounds as now kids can go out for some time and play on the slides and swings rather than getting bored with the same set of toys at home," she adds.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
