As Victoria approaches the 70% target for dual COVID-19 vaccination and is close to 90% for the population over the age of 16 who have received the first dose of the vaccine, following a recommendation of the competent health authority, the state government announced the relaxation of the lockdown measures earlier than expected and specifically from the midnight of next Thursday, October 21, essentially from the morning of Friday, October 22.
The new regulations will include the opening of places of worship under certain conditions as reported by vema.com.au.
More specifically, for religious gatherings (Divine Liturgy, Holy Communions), as well as for weddings and funerals, the participation of up to 50 people outdoors and up to 20 people indoors is provided, depending on the density limits and provided that all present are fully vaccinated. It is pointed out, however, that if the vaccination status of those present is unknown, then people will again be allowed to attend religious gatherings, weddings and funerals, but the maximum number will be limited to 10 people.