THE Victorian government has lifted curfews on heavy vehicles throughout the state in an effort to help overcome coronavirus-related supply shortages.

Demand for household goods at supermarkets has seen the supply chain having to react fast to keep supermarket shelves full.

“We are pleased that the government has heeded this advice and has acted quickly to temporarily remove all restrictions, which will enable supermarkets and store shelves to be replenished and re-stocked faster,” said VTA chief executive Peter Anderson.

“As we said yesterday, patience and a return to normalcy is required from consumers so that supply chains can satisfy the unprecedented demand seen over the past week.”

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Mr Anderson said while consumers were concerned about COVID-19, they did not need to be worried about supermarkets running out of goods “because all the evidence points to there being ample stock in the supply chain”.

“What we don’t want to see are shoppers thinking they have to buy a month’s worth of groceries every time they go to the store,” he said.

“If shoppers would resist the temptation to buy household essentials they might see on the shelves but don’t have a pressing need for, it would give others with a genuine need a chance.” The move from the Victorian government follows similar legislation passed in Queensland earlier in the week.