"The revelations that the Victorian curfew was not based on health or police advice provides a strong argument for the Government to lift it immediately," Tim Piper, Victorian Head of the national employer association Ai Group said today.
"Lifting the unpopular curfew without delay will have a desperately-needed positive impact on confidence in the state.
"The whole state would heave a sigh of relief if this element of one of the toughest restriction regimes in the world was removed. Getting outdoors is good for mental and physical health, and considering that night venues are shut anyway, the risks are minimal.
"Shift workers, including doctors and nurses ending shifts, and night owls should not needlessly be put in a position where they fear breaking the law if they want to go for a late-evening stroll.
"The unilateral decision of the Government to impose this curfew in the first place is another reminder that decision-making behind closed doors without effective consultation results in poor outcomes," Mr Piper said.
Media enquiries: Tim Piper – 0411 430 301