Regional Victorians are now officially into the second half of stage three lockdowns and while the isolation novelty factor has largely worn off, health experts and community leaders say there is no room for complacency in adhering to rules.

Federation University's Ashley Humphrey said most people understand this is the reality. He said at the same time, such restrictions on liberties were beginning to grate on people, seemingly at odds with Australian culture. Cracks were starting to show.

"We are lucky to live in a country where typically we have no laws other than constitutional laws," Dr Humphrey said.

"We've seen a lot of negativity on social media channels, particularly towards the Victorian government and the second lockdown. It speaks lot about our freedom and consequences when freedom is taken away."

Ballarat has a chance to reach zero active COVID-19 cases. City of Ballarat remains with six active cases but no change for a third consecutive day.

Deakin University's epidemiology lead Catherine Bennett told The Courier on Tuesday the key would be to watch for new cases introduced to the community and swift action to contain this.

For this to work, Professor Bennett said this would demand the Ballarat community stick to whatever was needed - physical distancing, hand hygiene, masking up - long after the lockdown was over.

This was backed-up by Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos, who spoke to The Courier on Tuesday about the need to extend the state of emergency to enforce such safety measures to protect all communities as we ease out of lockdown.

"It's an interesting time at the mid-point of lockdown, there is a bit of light in the figures we're seeing," Dr Humphrey said.

"The second lockdown has been particularly challenging because we've been through lockdown and the novelty factor before.

"The longer this goes on and the potential it could go on for awhile, the more normal habits and factors of isolation increase. The danger is also, the more and more people withdraw socially....We need to keep digging deep and continue to do these things we wouldn't normally do with an understanding we will get through this at some point."

Dr Humphrey said winter weather was likely a contributing factor to people's sense of being fed-up. Usual winter activities like a cafe for lunch, dinner at a restaurant or a football game had all been ruled out.

This lockdown's projected end is in spring.

If you or someone you know is in need of crisis support, phone Lifeline 13 11 14.

Help is also available, but not limited, via the following organisations. The key message is you are not alone.

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