Dear Provider,

As we face the new challenges of COVID-19 with the emergence of variants of the virus (UK, South Africa, Brazil), we would like to reinforce the importance of staying informed and vigilant around Coronavirus, to protect your wellbeing.

At midnight tonight, Victoria goes into a five-day, stage-4  lockdown (until midnight on Wednesday 17 February). This is a reminder to us all that the ongoing pandemic is here to stay for the foreseeable future.

In-home care remains an essential service in all of the states where we operate, including Victoria, and we thank you for continuing to provide care to our clients during these trying times.

The safety of our clients is of the utmost importance. Please remember that all in-home care must be provided whilst wearing a mask.  New restrictions in Victoria also mean that masks must be worn at all times whilst you are outside of your home.  For more details on lockdown restrictions in Victoria, please click here.

Remember to take care of yourselves too. The Coronavirus pandemic has greatly changed the way we live. Being aware of how you’re feeling and knowing what you can do to look after your mental and physical wellbeing is an important part of staying healthy during this challenging time.

The Department of Health has further information, guidance and tips on how you can stay well during the lockdown.  Please click here.

Whilst our team endeavours to provide you with the latest updates and guidance, ALL Providers are reminded of their responsibility to follow Commonwealth guidance, and state and territory government requirements and directions around: travel, permits, restrictions, the use of PPE and CovidSafe practices during the delivery of care – for example.  This is essential to protect yourself and our clients. 

Please continue to ask screening questions, including adding a question around travel through Melbourne Airport’s Terminal Four on 9 February 2021. This is now a Tier 1 exposure site which means that everyone who was at the airport between 4:45am and 2:00pm on 9^th February must be tested, and quarantine for 14 days. For updated information on high-risk sites/hotspots in Victoria, please visit the Department of Health website by clicking here.