Source: Reuters
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  • Australia’s second most populous state Victoria reports three new locally acquired COVID-19 cases
  • Melburnians expect an announcement about a possible easing of restrictions, including the 25-kilometre travel limit, today
  • The new cases arise from 17,538 test results received yesterday, while 14,870 vaccination doses were delivered at state-run sites

Victoria has reported three new locally acquired COVID-19 cases this morning as Australia’s second most populous state expects an update on restrictions from Friday.

Today’s announcement follows five new local cases reported yesterday. Two of those cases are linked to a Southbank apartment complex.

Health authorities said the three new cases announced today were also linked to current outbreaks.

Despite the new cases, further easing of Melbourne’s lockdown restrictions is anticipated to be announced today.

Senior state government ministers and health officials are meeting this morning to finalise the details of the new arrangements, including a possible end of the 25-kilometre travel limit.

Yesterday there were 17,538 test results received and 14,870 vaccination doses were delivered at state-run sites.

Victoria was plunged into a one-week lockdown on May 27 to contain an outbreak, forcing its seven million residents to remain at home except for essential activities.

The lockdown was extended in Melbourne until June 10, with some restrictions relaxed earlier in other regions of the state. While Melbourne’s lockdown has been lifted, some restrictions remain in place including the travel limit and wearing of face masks outside homes.

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