Protective masks are again mandatory in all indoor venues outside of the home for people in the Australian state of Victoria aged eight years and over, in a bid to curtail rising COVID-19 cases and the spread of the Omicron variant. Acting Premier James Merlino announced indoor mask rules will be expanded in hospitality, entertainment, and office settings from 11.59 p.m. on Thursday. Face masks will also be required at all major events with more than 30,000 patrons, but can be removed while seated outdoors. Merlino described the mandatory measures as modest and common sense. “This is a sensible response which will allow businesses to stay open, bars and restaurants to continue to stay open, and major events to go ahead,” he told reporters. “Masks are a cheap and effective way to maintain the health of the community—it’s something public health experts have been calling for. “The updated mask rules will …