Three Central Victorian municipalities will be part of an opt-in, double-vaccinated access trial for select businesses from October 11.
The Greater Bendigo, Pyrenees, and Buloke shires will join three other highly-vaccinated areas for a trial which will require businesses and events that put their hands up to service people who show proof of double vaccination.
Throughout the two-week trial the state government will deploy support officers to aid participating businesses and feedback will be given as to the effectiveness of a "vaccinated economy".
City of Greater Bendigo chief executive Craig Niemann said it was a positive step forward but wanted to see clearer guidelines.
"Having to check IDs and all that is difficult, and it'll depend a bit on what sort of support is provided.
"The devil is in the detail, but I expect there will be some businesses in our municipality that are interested."
Former exposure site on board
Wycheproof's Bakery on Broadway was listed as an exposure site in July after a positive case attended the venue.
Co-owner Ann Durie said a vaccinated economy was "great news" but wanted to ensure the onus was not solely placed on staff.
"We're really happy to do it to protect our community," she said.
"There is enough for staff to do already and when you're busy it's hard.
"I'm excited about it, just to have a few more people in the business."
Kalinda Turner owns Turnaround Therapy in Strathdale and says she would not be taking part in the trial.
"I believe everyone has a choice in what they want to do, especially with their body, and I don't think people should be punished for that," she said.
Need to take a step forward
Be.Bendigo chief executive Dennis Bice fully supports a vaccinated economy for businesses to restart their recovery.
He agreed more clarity was needed about the rollout and government support.
"I'm quite interested to see the detail in how this will actually play out," he said.
"I think the majority of businesses would be fully supportive of this trial because we need to work our way forward to getting back to some sort of normality.
Businesses or events wanting to participate in the trials are encouraged to get in touch with their peak body.
