Warrnambool City Council chief executive officer Peter Schneider said that in light of the very strong messages from the Victorian Government around limiting social interaction the council had decided to close the dog park, skate park, public barbecues and playgrounds.

"These facilities create the possibility of people congregating in a small space which heightens the risk of COVID-19 being transmitted," Mr Schneider said.

"It is also impractical for council to sanitise these facilities many times each day."

Signs will be installed at those facilities throughout today to let people know.

The West Warrnambool Neighbourhood House will also close as a requirement of the new regulations, the council said.

The South-West Victorian Livestock Exchange has also cancelled the Store Sale planned for Friday.

"The store sales typically draw large numbers of people and we simply can't ensure we create a low-risk environment at such a sale," Mr Schneider said.

"We acknowledge that these measures are impacting on people's lives but we believe, based on the advice we have received from the Australian and Victorian governments, that these actions are in the best interests of our community.

"They will be particularly challenging for parents with children who want to be out and about.

"But the message from the Department of Health and Human Services is very clear:"

The department said the most important message for all Victorians was to stay at home and avoid all gatherings of people.

"This minimises the chances of transmission, protects the health system and saves lives," the department says.

"If you are with other people, you must observe the rule of one person for every four square metres to ensure a safe physical distance.

"If you are in doubt about whether you should go out, go to the shops, take public transport, or let your children go on a play date - the simple answer is don't."

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