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Coronavirus crisis: Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announces 288 new COVID-19 cases

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VideoThere's frustration and confusion over stage three restrictions, with some areas pleading for a re-think.

Victoria has recorded 288 new coronavirus cases, the nation’s biggest daily increase since the pandemic began.

Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed the new cases on Friday, with just 26 linked to known infections, while 262 remain under investigation.

The new cases push the State’s active case tally past 1000 for the first time.

Previously, the highest daily state total in Australia was 212 cases recorded in NSW on 27 March.

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Mr Andrews said the State’s number of cases was “always going to get worse before it gets better”.

“I know there will be great concern about these numbers. People will feel deeply concerned to see that number as high as it is,” he said.

He said he was comforted by the record number of tests conducted in the state, including a record 37,588 tests on Thursday.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer has requested people in locked-down metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire wear masks when they are out of their home and can’t social distance.

An empty Spring Street is seen with a a lone taxi and tram on July 09, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia.
Camera IconAn empty Spring Street is seen with a a lone taxi and tram on July 09, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. Credit: Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images

Two million reusable masks and one million single-use masks will be distributed by the government.

Lockdown regulations that came into force overnight are not expected to be reflected in the coronavirus tally for about two weeks.

The Andrews Government earlier announced it would roll out a $534 million support package for businesses impacted by the next wave of coronavirus restrictions.

Treasurer Tim Pallas today announced a raft of new measures including cash grants for struggling businesses and relief for tourism operators who will no longer receive Melbourne-based visitors.

Hard-hit hospitality businesses will have access to $30 million from a dedicated fund while $26 million will provide mental health support for those running a small business.

A $40 million capped fund for regional tourism businesses will be used to cover the cost of refunds and marketing campaigns.

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