Residents in Melbourne and the state of Victoria are waking up to a little bit more freedom this morning after Premier Daniel Andrews announced a relaxing of Covid restrictions
Hospitality and retail venues will reopen, students can return to school and office buildings can have up to 25 percent of workers.
Masks will still be required both indoors and outdoors and crowds will not be allowed back at big events like this weekend’s football.
However, it’s a different story for Sydney and the state of New South Wales after the government announced a four-week extension to lockdown restrictions last night.
The state recorded 172 new cases of Covid-19 yesterday, the biggest daily increase since the current outbreak began, 61 of these individuals were in the community whilst infectious.
Meanwhile, Melbourne and Victoria is the first location in the world to bring the Delta variant under control following an outbreak.
What changes for Victoria?
This news will be a welcome relief for businesses who have been severely impacted by this fifth lockdown.
“To every Victorian who checked in with our QR system, who got tested and quarantined, and stayed home to slow the spread of this virus, thank you – it’s because of you we’ve able to get on top of this Delta outbreak and open up our state”
PREMIER DANIEL ANDREWS
The conservative easing of regulations will see hospitality and retail reopen, with strict density limits, but masks will still be required both indoors and outdoors and visitors at home will remain banned.
Public gatherings will be allowed with up to 10 people, with infants under 12 months not included in the cap.
“Today is welcome news but with thousands of Victorians in quarantine, we need to remain vigilant to keep each other safe – so please check in everywhere, every time, wear a mask and get vaccinated as soon as you’re eligible.
MINISTER FOR HEALTH MARTIN FOLEY
However, due to the significant transmission risk we have seen throughout the pandemic, gatherings in the home are still not permitted. People will only be able to book accommodation with their household, intimate partner or single bubble person.
Live music venues, dance classes and physical recreation facilities, including gyms, will all open with density requirements of 1 person per 4sqm.
“We understand that that will be challenging for people who have not seen family and friends for a couple of weeks now … but we know that this is where transmission occurs.”
Mr Andrews also said there will be no crowds at large gatherings for a few weeks.
“No crowds at large events theatres or those sorts of gatherings for at least two weeks.”
A maximum of 50 people will be permitted at weddings. Funerals will also have a cap of 50 mourners, plus those conducting the funeral.
Health officials say they take “some comfort” in knowing that all cases over the past 48 hours have been in isolation whilst infectious.
William is an Executive News Producer at TICKER NEWS, responsible for the production and direction of news bulletins. William is also the presenter of the hourly Weather + Climate segment.
With qualifications in Journalism and Law (LLB), William previously worked at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) before moving to TICKER NEWS. He was also an intern at the Seven Network's 'Sunrise'.
A creative-minded individual, William has a passion for broadcast journalism and reporting on global politics and international affairs.
In a groundbreaking development, Intel and AMD—two of the biggest names in the tech industry—are teaming up to shape the future of x86 chip technology.
The tech giants have established a joint advisory group to influence the design of chips that power a wide range of devices, from personal computers to large-scale servers. This collaboration marks a significant shift in the industry, as Intel and AMD, traditionally fierce rivals, work together to set new standards for chip innovation.
The aim of this partnership is clear: to stay ahead of rapid changes in the tech world and drive the future of computing. Industry experts predict that this joint effort could lead to significant advancements, with the potential to reshape the landscape of processor technology. The implications for everything from computing performance to energy efficiency could be vast.
Pentagon sends THAAD system and 100 U.S. troops amid growing regional tensions
The United States has announced the deployment of its advanced THAAD missile defense system to Israel, along with 100 U.S. troops to operate it. This move is seen as a significant step in strengthening Israel’s defense capabilities amid rising security concerns in the Middle East.
The Pentagon confirmed that the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system is fully operational in Israel, enhancing the nation’s ability to intercept and neutralise incoming missile threats.
This deployment comes at a time when regional conflicts and tensions, particularly involving Iran, are intensifying.
How it’s designed
The THAAD system is designed to complement Israel’s existing missile defense systems, such as the Iron Dome, by providing an additional layer of protection against long-range missile threats.
The U.S. has a long-standing defense relationship with Israel, and this latest move signals deeper military cooperation between the two nations.
With this deployment, the U.S. sends a strong message to regional actors, particularly Iran, about its commitment to defending Israel and maintaining security in the Middle East. The strategic implications for neighbouring countries are also noteworthy, as the increased U.S. military presence could impact ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
As tensions rise and the deployment of THAAD unfolds, questions remain about the potential challenges and risks this advanced defense system might pose.
Company eyes new credit and shares to survive as strikes and delays weigh the company down
Boeing is taking drastic steps to secure its future, seeking to raise at least $10 billion by selling new shares and securing a fresh credit line.
The iconic manufacturer has been struggling this year with major setbacks, including a 737 MAX mishap in January and a machinist strike that halted production.
In filings made Tuesday, Boeing revealed plans to issue up to $25 billion in shares or debt over the next three years while locking in a $10 billion credit deal.
Sources say the company will aim to raise around $10 billion from its upcoming stock offering.
Boeing called the moves “prudent steps” to ensure access to liquidity as it faces growing financial challenges.
Its stock, which began the year at $250, rose 2% to about $152 after the announcement, as analysts expressed relief over Boeing’s efforts to stabilize its cash flow.
The machinist strike, which started last month, has intensified the company’s cash problems, with Boeing burning through $1 billion per month before the walkout.
Boeing hasn’t posted a profit since 2018, and the coming months will be critical as it battles to recover.