QR codes mandatory for retail, extra support for Melbourne businesses

Restrictions remain in place for metropolitan Melbourne, as the state government extends the lockdown for a further seven days.

This means restrictions will continue until 11.59pm on Thursday, June 10 before gradual easing.

There will still be only five reasons for Melburnians to leave home: shopping for food and supplies, authorised work and study, care and caregiving, exercise, and getting vaccinated. People will be able to travel further for exercise and shopping, with an expanded 10km radius.

Mask wearing remains the same.

QR Code Service mandatory for retailers

QR codes will be mandatory in retail settings like supermarkets and shops. The 15-minute threshold will also be removed so anyone entering a shop or a cafe will need to check-in.

Businesses should proactively encourage customers to check-in.

Venues and facilities required to use the free Victorian Government QR Code Service for record keeping include: hospitality, community venues, seated entertainment venues, recreation and sporting facilities, hairdressers and beauty services, gaming venues, and more.

The Victorian Government QR Code Service is free for all Victorian businesses, organisations, clubs and events. This service helps contact tracers to contain a COVID-19 outbreak. You can find further information about the QR Code Service here.

Further support for businesses

Due to the impact this lockdown will have on businesses, the Victorian Government is offering extended support by way of grants through their Circuit Breaker Business Support Package.

The Business Costs Assistance Program offers grants of $2500 for businesses directly affected by the restrictions including restaurants and cafes, event suppliers, accommodation providers and non-essential retailers. This will now be doubled to $5000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne.

The Licensed Hospitality Venue Fund offers grants of $3500 for businesses holding an eligible liquor licence and food certificate. This will be doubled to $7000 for eligible businesses in metropolitan Melbourne.

Applications are scheduled to open on Thursday, June 3 and will be open until 11.59pm on Thursday, June 24. Businesses will only need to complete one application.

Get more information about the grants here.