Victoria announces new restrictions, closing most Melbourne retail businesses

Victoria has announced a wave of new restrictions that will lead to the closure or reduced function of most businesses in Melbourne. It comes after the state recorded 13 more deaths overnight.

Opposition opposes Victorian state government's attempt to extend the state of emergency for another 12 months Source: Darrian Traynor/Getty Images

Almost all retail businesses in Melbourne have been ordered to close at midnight on Wednesday under the new Stage 4 coronavirus restrictions announced by the state government.

Essential businesses - including supermarkets, pharmacies and banks – will remain open.

The measures, announced on Monday, come as Victoria recorded 429 new coronavirus infections and 13 deaths.

You can read more in English here. 

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews Source: AAP