THERE was a huge sigh of relief all over the state this morning as acting premier, James Merlino announced further easing of restrictions in regional Victoria and the end of the lockdown in metropolitan Melbourne.

The further easing of restrictions means community sport will return in the regions and businesses will be able to increase their capacity.

Following just one locally acquired case on Tuesday, Mr Merlino said it was a “good day” for Victorians and thanked them for the high testing numbers which attributed to the decision.

The one locally acquired case had been quarantining during the infectious period.

“Thanks to these very high testing numbers, our public health team are getting a better sense of these outbreaks that are moving through our community,” Mr Merlino said.

“We always said that we would ease restrictions … and Victorians have done an amazing job.

“To every Victorian for following the rules, for doing the right thing, and for doing it with kindness and compassion - thank you.

“There are 83 cases of coronavirus in Victoria, of which 68 are linked as active cases to the current outbreaks.”

Through state-run vaccination centres, 19,533 Victorians were vaccinated on Tuesday and 28,485 test results were received.

When restrictions ease at 11.59pm Thursday, regional Victorians will be able to have two visitors to their home, once per day.

“The changes include visitors to the home so that's limited to two adults per day plus their dependents,” Mr Merlino said.