Returning to stage three restrictions will economically and mentally hurt already struggling North East businesses, a cafe owner says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
He revealed Melbourne and Mitchell Shire would enter stage 4 restrictions and all of regional Victoria would return to stage 3 restrictions from midnight on Wednesday.
Under stage 3 restrictions, residents can only leave their home for four reasons: work, essential shopping, exercise and care.
Mr Andrews announced "with some regret" that regional businesses like cafes, restaurants, gyms and bars would need to close or operate as takeaway only.
Jane Keats, owner of Wodonga's Secret Cup cafe, said she was not sure how the business would survive a return to lockdown restrictions.
"It's been a lot of effort and a lot of extra work getting everything back up and running, a lot of extra hours," she said.
"After all that hard work to be back to square one...
"One of the biggest tolls on hospitality and tourism operators is on mental health. It's been such a rollercoaster emotionally for everyone, it's so exhausting, I do think a lot of people will be affected."
IN OTHER NEWS:
Business Wodonga president Graham Jenkin said the stringent restrictions were unfair when Wodonga had no COVID-19 cases.
"It's frustrating for us in Victoria not to be able to do what the other part of our community [Albury] can do," he said.
Mr Jenkin said the latest announcements would hurt Wodonga businesses, but the worst could still be coming.
"This is devastating for a lot of businesses," he said.
"Businesses were just starting to get back to normal, people were starting to dine out, despite the border restrictions which certainly made life hard.
"We're still waiting further announcements on workplaces by the Premier tomorrow which no doubt will have more impact than we can even think about today."
Under stage 3 restrictions, beauty salons and entertainment venues will close and community sport will stop.
Mrs Keats said the business would move to takeaway coffee and a small menu. She said they had loyal customers but their location was a destination not a convenient takeaway option
"It's a huge step backwards again, I'm not sure how to survive this time," she said.
Mrs Keats said the hardest part was telling new staff there was no work.
The new restrictions will be in place until at least September 13.