The Australian state of Victoria, a hotspot in the country’s Covid-19 outbreak, has said social distancing restrictions will be eased earlier than previously announced as daily new infections held near three-month lows.

Victoria said 12 Covid-19 infections have been detected over the past 24 hours, near a three-month low of 11 recorded on Sept 21.

With case numbers well below the thresholds defined in the government’s phased removal of restrictions, state Premier Daniel Andrews said he will on Sunday update the schedule for easing curbs. “We have had a very good day and I will back before you tomorrow to make some substantial announcements,” Andrews told reporters in Melbourne.