SOURCE: VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT, TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT
All government construction projects are now closed in areas currently under lockdown. This includes all construction projects in metropolitan Melbourne, City of Ballarat, City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and Mitchell Shire.
Any planned disruptions such as road closures, speed reductions or the use of replacement buses that are are currently in place on the road and public transport networks related to the closed projects will continue. Specific details about individual projects will be available in the next couple or days.
The shutdown does not currently impact other local government areas of regional Victoria and these projects can proceed as per normal.
This measure has been taken to limit the spread of COVI-19 among construction workers following multiple outbreaks linked to construction sites.
The shutdown commenced at 11:59pm on 20 September with workers to return to sites as confirmed through health directions.
During the construction industry shutdown, limited critical maintenance will continue on public transport sites to ensure safety for workers and the travelling public.
A small number of maintenance staff will be required to perform these critical tasks during the shutdown. An exception has been put in place for these sites to enable the workers to carry out these tasks.
The only road works that can be undertaken are urgent works like fixing potholes, debris on the road, the sight line issues.
Prior to reopening, all construction sites will be required to demonstrate compliance with Chief Health Officer directions, including the requirement for workers to show evidence to their employer that they have had one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. COVID Safe plans will also be required to minimise interaction in areas including tea rooms.