There were six deaths taking the state's total to 83. They were two people in their 90s, three in their 80s, and one in their 70s.

It follows another grim statistical record on Monday when there was a record number of new cases announced - a total of 532 across Victoria.

There has now been more than three weeks with more than triple-digit new cases every day.

In the daily media conference today, Premier Andrews said there were 4,475 active cases across the state.

He announced a reduction in surgery with no operations to take place apart from the most urgent cases. He said it was to free up staff to concentrate on the most vulnerable patients.

"I cannot stand here and say I have confidence in arrangements in private aged care," he said.

He said that while private aged care arrangements were not under state jurisdiction, the government would be stepping in to support. "These [residents] are all Victorians," he said.

It takes Victoria to 9049 cases in total.

There are now 260 people in hospitals across Victoria, with 45 of those in intensive care .

Of the active cases, Premier Andrews noted there were 414 health care workers and 769 from aged care homes.

Premier Andrews said: "Those cases are low in regional Victoria. I thank regional Victorians for embracing the rules. Keeping numbers low is a must."

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Premier Andrews once again encouraged people to get tested - even if they have only mild symptoms.

Health minister Jenny Mikakos said: "It was very distressing to see the number of outbreaks in aged care settings.

"The situation in private aged care has been very concerning."

The chief health officer Brett Sutton said he hoped the rate of COVID-19 infections had reached a peak on Monday, but said the numbers could remain volatile.

The breakdown of cases by local government area will be sent out later today.

Currently the Ballarat municipality has 10 active cases. There were none registered until July 17 when Ballarat registered its first positive COVID case since mid-May. Numbers increased steadily after that first case, but have been reasonably steady for the past few days.

In recent days, concerns have been raised over contact tracing and planning to manage for outbreaks in aged care homes.

On Monday, Ballarat Health Services confirmed that five of the city's active cases can be traced back to the Bill Crawford Lodge on Dana Street.

Stage 3 "Stay at Home" restrictions remain in force across metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire.

There are only four reasons for people to leave their homes: shopping for food and essential items; care and caregiving; daily exercise; and work and study.

Wearing masks is now mandatory when outdoors in areas of Melbourne under Stage 3 restrictions. In regional Victoria, masks are recommended rather than mandatory - especially in circumstances where physical distancing is likely to be difficult.

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