Victoria reports 176 new local coronavirus cases – its biggest daily jump this year

Victoria has reported 176 new local cases of COVID-19 a day after Premier Daniel Andrews announced the state’s plan out of lockdown.

It is the state’s highest daily jump in cases this year.

Of the new infections reported in the 24 hours to midnight on Wednesday, only 83 were linked to previous cases.

State-run hubs administered 33,720 vaccine doses in the same reporting period.

Mr Andrews confirmed on Wednesday that almost all of Victoria’s current coronavirus restrictions will remain in place until 70 per cent of the state’s eligible residents have received at least one vaccine dose.

He said authorities expect Victoria to reach that target around 23 September and conceded the coming weeks would be tough.

But playgrounds will reopen from 11.59pm on Thursday for children under 12, plus the supervision of just one parent or guardian who must wear a mask at all times

In-home care, such as babysitters, will also be expanded to school-aged children, but only if both parents are authorised workers.

Source: sbs.com.au