This is the news no one wants to hear – but it's important.

We always knew there would be cases and clusters. We have plans and systems in place to deal with precisely this scenario – and those are already well underway.

But I just wanted to give everyone a quick update and make sure you've all got the most up-to-date info – and what will change as a result:

As of this afternoon, there are 8 locally acquired cases in Victoria.

All 8 are safely isolating, as are their close contacts.

The public health team worked through the night to track their movements and get a list of exposure sites together.

This is live on the DHHS website and will be updated frequently, so please take a couple of minutes to have a look.

If you visited any of the locations listed you'll need to get tested as soon as possible and isolate until you get your results. Please don't delay it.

That's the nuts and bolts of where we're at.

Here's what's happening next:

As of 5pm this evening some new measures will be in place to make sure everyone stays safe tonight – and in the days to come.

The private gathering limit will be reduced from 30 to 15.

That means a maximum of 15 guests in your home, not including babies under 12 months.