Editor’s note: read the October 26 update here.

On Tuesday, Premier Daniel Andrews said the easing of restrictions planned for November 1 could be brought forward, adding that there could be “very significant announcements about a further step to opening” this weekend.

“I think we’re well-placed to reach the point on the weekend where we can talk more about possibly bringing forward some of those changes,” he said.

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But, as Victoria today recorded seven new cases (amid a growing outbreak in Melbourne’s north), we’ve received the news that those restrictions will not be eased early.

“We are not in a position to do that today because we have at least 1000 test results from that northern metropolitan outbreak that are in the lab,” Andrews said.

“This is not anything other than a cautious pause, to wait to get that important information, to get the results of those tests. Just to rule out whether ... there is more virus there than we think.”

Planning your return to restaurants and bars? Consult our live lists:
Live List: Melbourne Restaurants Reopening
Live List: Melbourne Bars Reopening

dhhs.vic.gov.au