Government response to the COVID-19 outbreak
Our response plan
The Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus
(COVID-19) Short Form outlines how key activities will operate and how the
public can support the response. It outlines:

what we know about the disease and the outbreak
what sort of risk COVID‐19 represents
what the Australian Government health sector will be doing to respond
how the Government’s response will affect people
what people can do to contribute
how people can manage their own risk, the risk to their families and their communities

As we learn more about COVID-19 we are:

regularly reviewing our response
moving resources into activities that are working well
scaling back activities that are not working

The plan focuses on government activities. But many government and private
agencies are working together to support the Australian Government response.
Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus
(COVID-19) Short Form
The Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus
(Short Form) outlines how key activities will operate and how the public can
support the response.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Group on
COVID-19 has developed a Management Plan which supports the
COVID-19 Plan’s objectives.
Management Plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
Populations
The Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus
guides the Australian health sector response. This Management Plan focuses on
culturally appropriate testing and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander peoples, and for specific locations including remote communities.
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee has published
the Management and Operational Plan for People with Disability.
More information for people with disability is available on the Department of
Social Service's website.
Management and Operational Plan for People with
Disability
The Australian Health Sector Emergency Response Plan for Novel Coronavirus
guides the Australian health sector response. This management and operational
plan focuses on people with disability. There is an easy read version on this
page, too.
The Communicable Diseases Network Australia
(CDNA) has published the Australian National Disease Surveillance Plan
for COVID-19.
Australian National Disease Surveillance Plan for
COVID-19
This plan outlines the national approach for disease surveillance for
COVID-19. Information that is collected through this plan helps inform public
health measures for control of COVID-19 in Australia.


Government response to the COVID-19 outbreak
What you can do
Help us stop the spread of the virus by:

staying informed through our COVID-19 health alert, which is updated every day
keeping in touch with friends and family to make sure they’re well
taking steps to protect yourself and others, such as practising good hygiene and quarantining yourself if you’re sick
staying healthy and making use of the ongoing support available
being a smart traveller — read our COVID-19 advice for travellers


Government response to the COVID-19 outbreak
What we are doing now
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 spreading through international travel, the
Government is:

applying travel restrictions
screening travellers who arrive in Australia and ensuring they quarantine on arrival
continuing with border surveillance

The Government is also:

delivering a $17.6 billion economic support package to encourage investment and keep people in jobs
delivering a $2.4 billion health package to protect all Australians
providing $669 million to expand Medicare-subsidised telehealth services for all Australians so everyone has access to quality healthcare while at home
delivering support to Australians experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence due to the fallout of coronavirus
providing $48.1 million for the National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response Plan in addition to $74 million to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australians
funding home delivery of most prescription medicines for those unable to get to their local pharmacy
securing face masks to help protect our medical professionals
tracing coronavirus cases
providing information on our response and how you can protect yourself and others in English and other languages
putting limits on some prescription and over the counter medications, to make sure those who need them can access them

State and territory health authorities are:

testing people suspected of having the virus
monitoring close contacts of confirmed cases every day
imposing travel restrictions between states
opening fever clinics


Government response to the COVID-19 outbreak
Who manages the response
State and territory governments are mainly responsible for health matters.
When a major health issue like COVID-19 faces our country, they:

work together with the Australian Government
share information so they can provide the best possible care
ensure the response is consistent and integrated across the country

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) makes key
decisions and coordinates this response.
The AHPPC is made up of:

the Chief Health Officers from each state and territory
the Chief Medical Officer
representatives from key departments

It meets daily to assess the risk to Australia and recommend public health
actions. The AHPPC endorsed the Government’s emergency response plan.
The Australian Government has put together a team of widely respected
clinicians, led
by the Chief Medical Officer, to assist with the COVID-19 response.
Australia.gov.au
Visit Australia.gov.au to learn more about
COVID-19 support from all of government including financial support and advice
for businesses and employees, help for education providers, advice on domestic
and international travel and other community services.


Government response to the COVID-19 outbreak
Our aims
The Australian Government’s health response to the COVID-19 outbreak aims to:

minimise the number of people becoming infected or sick with COVID-19
minimise how sick people become and the mortality rate
manage the demand on our health systems
help you to manage your own risk and the risk to your family and community

Australia has been highly successful in 'flattening the curve'. The number of
new COVID-19 cases in Australia each day is very low. We are now beginning to
take careful steps to ease some of our restricitions that have helped us
suppress the spread of the virus. Find out more about our 3-step
plan.
Our response to COVID-19 has been informed by modelling of the impact of
COVID-19.
The modelling finds our health system will cope if we if we continue to:

have effective physical distancing
increase our health system capacity
isolate people with the virus and their close contacts

Decisions about the steps we take towards a COVIDSafe Australia are being
informed by intelligence and surveillance.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Australia – Pandemic Health Intelligence
Plan
The Pandemic Health Intelligence Plan provides a framework for collecting the
information required to support decision making about COVID-19.


Healthy eating during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Coronavirus and food safety
Meal planning
Planning ahead means fewer visits to the shops. You can use a meal
planner to plan an entire week’s meals and create a
shopping list.
Make extra servings of meals like soups, curries and stews and freeze them to
use later. Having some extra meals in the freezer is handy for days when you
don’t feel like cooking or you’re unwell.
You could try a meal kit delivery service such as Hello Fresh, Dinnerly,
Marley Spoon or others. Check what’s available in your area to see what each
service offers and what options suit your budget.


Healthy eating during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Coronavirus and food safety
Grocery shopping
Unless you are required to isolate, you can still go out
to shop for food. Just make sure you’re following physical
distancing requirements.
Some extra things you can do to stay safe while shopping include:

using a list so your visit is short and you don’t need to go out again to purchase forgotten items
choosing a time when fewer people are likely to be there
wiping down your shopping trolley or basket with hand sanitiser or disinfectant — many supermarkets are providing these items for customers to use before entering the store
using cards instead of cash
washing your hands or using hand sanitiser after leaving the store

Some things you can do to make food last longer, so you make fewer trips to
the supermarket, include:

buying food items that keep their nutritional value while stored or frozen. Frozen and tinned fruit and vegetables are picked while at their best and can be a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. Look for tinned fruit in natural juice, rather than syrup.
using cuts of meat, or beans and legumes that are suitable for stews and curries. This can often provide more than one meal as leftovers can be frozen.

Shopping online and having your order delivered, contact free, is a handy way
to stock up your fridge and pantry without leaving the house. Check with your
supermarket to see if this service is available in your area.
Assistance with grocery shopping and meals is available for older people who may need support.


Healthy eating during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Healthy eating during COVID-19 restrictions
There are many ways for Australians to choose foods that promote their health
and wellbeing. The Australian Dietary
Guidelines provide
recommendations for healthy eating that are realistic and practical. Most
importantly, the recommendations are based on the best available scientific
evidence.
The Australian Guide to Healthy
Eating covers the 5 food groups and the recommended amounts you should eat
every day. These include:

plenty of vegetables, including different types and colours, and legumes/beans
fruit
grain (cereal) foods, mostly wholegrain and/or high cereal fibre varieties, such as breads, cereals, rice, pasta, noodles, polenta, couscous, oats, quinoa and barley
lean meats and poultry, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds, and legumes/beans
milk yoghurt, cheese and/or their alternatives

Health eating habits include:

being physically active and choosing amounts of nutritious food and drinks to meet your energy needs
enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods
drinking plenty of water
limiting intake of foods containing saturated fat, added salt and added sugars such as biscuits, cakes, pastries, pies, processed meats, commercial burgers, pizza, fried foods, potato chips, crisps and other sugary or savoury snacks
limiting intake of alcohol
caring for your food — preparing and storing it safely


Healthy eating during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Coronavirus and food safety
COVID-19 is a respiratory disease spreading from person to person. It is not a
foodborne disease. There’s no evidence to suggest people will get infected by
swallowing the virus in, or on, food or drink. However, it is always a good
idea to practise safe handling and preparation of food. When preparing and
storing your food:

maintain good hygiene practices
wash fresh fruit and vegetables under running water before eating
avoid preparing food for other people if you have symptoms of respiratory illness

Businesses need to follow any social distancing requirements outlined by the
Australian and New Zealand Governments.
For more information visit Food Standards Australia New
Zealand.
During COVID-19, it is important to be aware of false and misleading
advertising and claims about particular food products preventing or curing
COVID-19. If you are suspicious of claims being made about a food product,
including those advertised as preventing or curing COVID-19, you can contact
the relevant food enforcement agency in your state or
territory.


Healthy eating during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Coronavirus and food safety
Involve the family
This is a good time to involve everyone in your household in their nutrition.
Get your kids involved with:

planning meals
making shopping lists
preparing meals
cleaning up

Older household members can take turns to prepare meals.
Dig out some favourite recipes or be more adventurous and try different
cuisines.


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Disinfecting
Bleach solutions
Disinfect surfaces after cleaning. Disinfectant does not work as well on
soiled or dirty surfaces.
Use a ready-made disinfectant that claims to kill viruses, or prepare a
chlorine-based (bleach) disinfectant. Always follow the instructions on the
label.
While bleach (chlorine) solutions are effective, handling bleach can be
dangerous. Consider using a safer alternative if possible.
If you decide to use bleach solution:

follow the instructions on the label
work in a well-ventilated area
do not use it with other products such as toilet bowl cleaners, acids (including vinegar) or anything containing ammonia
wear gloves when handling or preparing the solution
use protective eye wear to protect against splashes
make up the solution daily
use it mainly on hard, non-porous surfaces — it can damage textiles and metals
use a disposable paper towel or cloth to wipe the surface with the bleach solution

For full instructions, read our COVID-19 environmental cleaning and
disinfection principles fact sheet.
For more information about disinfectants and bleach, read:

appropriate use of disinfectants: information for consumers, health professionals and healthcare facilities — Therapeutic Goods Administration
chlorine use in infection control — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
chlorine — National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
chlorine bleach safety — North Dakota State University
working with household (chlorine) bleach — Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Protect yourself when cleaning or disinfecting
To minimise the risk of getting coronavirus, you should:

practise good hygiene
wear disposable impermeable gloves, a surgical mask, and eye protection or a face shield
wash hands with water and soap (use alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap is not available) before and after wearing protective gear
dispose of gloves and masks in a leak-proof plastic bag

If you can see respiratory secretions or other bodily fluid on surfaces, wear
a full-length disposable gown as well.
If a confirmed case or a person in isolation is in a room you need to clean,
ask them to put on a surgical mask.
Get advice from your work health and safety representative about wearing
protective gear correctly. View our information on PPE for the health
workforce.


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Personal hygiene
To protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19, you should:

practise good hygiene
take the 5 moments for hand hygiene approach when dealing with patients

Also view our information on personal protective equipment (PPE) for the
health workforce.


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Cleaning in the workplace
Communal areas for staff and the public
Routinely clean surfaces in these areas.
These areas include staff dining rooms, cafes, retail outlets, and staff
meeting rooms.
Health care settings
In patient areas, including consulting rooms:

clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces between each episode of patient care
take special care with surfaces that patients have touched directly or that have been exposed to respiratory droplets
take the 5 moments for hand hygiene approach

For inpatient care:

routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at least daily
clean and disinfect more often in high intensity or high traffic areas, such as ICU or outpatient areas
clean and disinfect equipment after each use
clean and disinfect surfaces that have been exposed to respiratory droplets between episode of patient care

If an area is very contaminated, you may need to conduct a terminal clean.
Patient transport vehicles
Set the air conditioning to fresh air. Do not recirculate air in the vehicle.
Routinely clean the surfaces.


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Terminal cleaning
Terminal cleaning is a procedure to decontaminate an area after discharge or
transfer of a patient with an infectious disease. Terminal cleaning includes
thorough cleaning and disinfection.
To carry out terminal cleaning:

remove medical equipment and items used by the patient
wear PPE — a surgical mask, protective eyewear, gloves and a gown
change bed screens and curtains, including disposable curtains or screens, that are soiled or contaminated
damp dust all surfaces, furniture and fittings
clean windows, sills and frames
clean all surfaces of bed and mattress
mop the floor
remove PPE and perform hand hygiene
clean all cleaning equipment and return it to the cleaners’ room or storage area
discard any waste
perform hand hygiene

You can use either of the following approaches:

2-step clean: clean with detergent and then disinfect
2-in-1 clean: clean with a combined detergent and disinfectant

For the 2-step clean, use either:

Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)-listed hospital-grade disinfectant that acts against viruses
chlorine-based product such as sodium hypochlorite

For the 2-in-1 clean, use either:

combined detergent and TGA-listed hospital-grade disinfectant that acts against viruses
combined detergent and chlorine-based product such as sodium hypochlorite (wipe or solution)

Online training
A 30-minute online module — COVID-19 infection control
training — is
available for care workers across all health care settings.
This training is hosted on an external site, provided by our COVID-19 training
partner Aspen Medical.
Register now
Publications and fact sheets
See our resources for health professionals on hygiene and
cleaning.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) resources for health professionals, including aged
care providers, pathology providers and health care
managers
A collection of resources for health professionals, including aged care
providers, pathology providers and health care managers, about coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Webinars
View our webinars on the COVID-19 response for the health and aged care
sector.


Hygiene and cleaning for the health workforce during COVID-19
Routine cleaning
Frequently touched surfaces
Frequently touched surfaces include door handles, bedrails, tabletops and
light switches.
Clean these surfaces frequently (at least daily) or when visibly dirty. Use
detergent solution or combined detergent and disinfectant solution or wipes.
Follow the instructions on the label.
Minimally touched surfaces
Minimally touched surfaces include floors, ceilings, walls, window curtains
and blinds.
Clean these surfaces when visibly dusty or dirty and straight after any
spills. Use:

detergent solution or wipes for general surfaces and non-patient care areas
detergent solution to damp mop instead of dry mopping

You should also:

regularly change window curtains
regularly clean sinks and basins

Follow the instructions on the label when using cleaning products.


If you need a payment
Check what you can get
You may get a payment in any of the following circumstances. These include if
you’re:

not able to work or don’t have work
in isolation or hospitalised
caring for children.

You may get 1 of the following payments:

Youth Allowance
JobSeeker Payment
Parenting Payment.

If you’re caring for a child, you may also be able to claim Family Tax
Benefit.
If you’re in severe financial hardship and can’t get other income support, you
may be able to claim Special
Benefit.
If you’re in severe financial hardship because of extreme circumstances, you
may be able to claim the one off Crisis Payment – National Health Emergency
(COVID-19) payment.
You may be able to get income from JobKeeper
payment through your
employer. Ask them if they’ve registered for this payment before you claim an
income support payment from us. If they have and you’re eligible, your
employer will pay it to you. You don’t need to call or visit us to claim
JobKeeper payment.


If you need a payment
Report and keep your payment
If we approve your claim, you’ll need to report your
income for the past 2 weeks to
get your first payment.
To do this, there’ll be a reporting task for you to complete in either your:

Centrelink online account
Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.

You need to report every fortnight, even when your and your partner’s income
is zero.
You can find out what day you need to report either:

online, using your Centrelink online account through myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app
by phone.

[ Claim a payment
Complete the following steps to claim a payment due to coronavirus.
](/individuals/subjects/coronavirus-covid-19-and-how-we-may-help/if-you-need-
payment/claim-payment)


If you need a payment
Claim a payment
If you’ve got a Centrelink online account, you can claim a
payment.
If you don’t have a Centrelink online account, you can get one online. You can
establish your identity and get a Centrelink Reference Number (CRN) with
myGov and
then link to Centrelink. You don’t need to visit a service centre or call us.
Watch our video to find out about setting up your Centrelink online account
and claiming a payment.
Transcript | Watch on
YouTube


Immigration detention
Legal representatives and Consular officials
We are asking legal representatives and detainees to use alternate means to
engage including through phone calls, skype or other audio visual tools.
We can assist detainees with the use of audio-visual equipment and private
rooms for phone calls in facilities where available. Your assistance with this
is appreciated.


Immigration detention
Detention visitor program closure
The immigration detention visitor program was
ceased on 24 March 2020. These measures are NOT permanent and we will
continually review them.
There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the immigration detention
network.
As community transmission of COVID-19 increases within Australia, our key
focus is preventing the entry of COVID-19 to facilities.
We are committed to the health and safety of detainees and staff.
The changes are consistent with those in the community and we will continue to
put in place measures in detention facilities in line with advice from the
Department of Health and the broader Commonwealth response.These are being
regularly reviewed.
Each detainee will receive a $20 phone credit each week to support ongoing
contact with family and community groups via their personal devices. This will
continue until the measures are lifted for the visits program. We understand
the important role visitors play in detainees' health and wellbeing.
The decision to cease visits has been carefully considered in relation to
social distancing and measures across all States and Territories around public
gatherings and current health advice.


Immigration detention
Religious services
It has been observed that most religious groups are self-electing to cease
visits to detention facilities as they adhere to the measures being
implemented within the community.
Each detention facility has a Religious Liaison Officer (RLO) who is working
with a number of religious groups to ensure alternate methods for religious
observance. In some cases, pre-recorded services are being made available
where a religious group does not have an alternate means to provide remote
services.


Immigration detention
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
PPE levels are being closely monitored to ensure there is sufficient equipment
to respond to COVID-19.
We are continually working closely with the service providers to ensure a
coordinated response to any infectious disease outbreak.
Our Detention Health service provider works with detainees who attend clinics
on COVID-19 related measures.


Immigration detention
Medical services
All detainees continue to have ongoing access to the medical professionals
located within facilities.
Detainees have access to the Health Advisory Service (HAS) for medical advice
outside of onsite clinic hours. Qualified medical personnel provide medical
advice.


Immigration detention
Excursions
In line with the health advice it has been recommended that all movements be
restricted for detainees unless absolutely necessary.


Immigration detention
Scrutiny bodies
We understand the importance of detainees having contact with scrutiny bodies
and the important oversight role these scrutiny bodies provide.
We are working with the Ombudsman's Office, the Red Cross and the Australian
Human Rights Commission to ensure they can continue their ongoing work across
detention facilities, although in a different format.


Immigration detention
Suspected cases of COVID-19
If clinically indicated detainees will be tested in line with advice from
health professionals and will be isolated pending test results.
Our Detention Health service provider has conducted public health awareness
activities and posted information at sites on hand hygiene and other
preventive measures detainees can take.


Industry and employers
Temporary visa work arrangements
We are making a number of changes to temporary visa holder arrangements during
the coronavirus crisis in order to protect the health of our community,
safeguard job opportunities for Australians, support critical industries, and
assist with rapid recovery.
Employers are still required to abide by all relevant Australian workplace
laws. Overseas workers, including international students, have the same rights
under Australian workplace law as all other employees.


Industry and employers
Supermarkets
On 4 April 2020, the Government announced it was ceasing the temporary
relaxation of the 40 hour work limit for student visa holders working in
supermarkets.
From 1 May 2020, the Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border
Force will exercise normal discretion in relation to student visa holders
employed in supermarkets who exceed the work limitations of their visa.
The Department of Home Affairs and the Australian Border Force officers will
not seek to enforce these conditions for, nor initiate prosecutions with
respect to, student visa holders who worked in supermarkets in accordance with
this temporary measure between 7 March 2020 and 30 April 2020.


Industry and employers
Agriculture
We will apply flexible arrangements to allow critical workers, including
Seasonal Worker Programme and Pacific Labour Scheme participants and Working
Holiday Makers, to extend their stay in Australia:

Seasonal Worker Programme workers with visas due to expire will be able to apply for a Temporary Activity (subclass 408) visa in the Australian Government Endorsed Event (AGEE) stream.
Pacific Labour Scheme workers with visas due to expire can apply for a new Temporary Work (International Relations) (subclass 403) Pacific Labour scheme stream visa.
Workers currently in Australia under these programs will also be exempt from the requirement to work for a single employer and will be able to move between approved employers.

In addition, Working Holiday Makers who are working in critical sectors (eg
agriculture, aged or health care) will be exempt from the 6 month work
limitation with one employer and eligible for a Temporary Activity (subclass
408) visa in the Australian Government Endorsed Event (AGEE) stream.


Industry and employers
Aged Care
International students who work in aged care can also work more than 40 hours
a fortnight, to make sure there are enough staff to look after the elderly who
are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19.
All aged care Approved Providers or Commonwealth funded aged care service
providers that have been issued with a RACS ID or a NAPS ID have been given
access to the temporary relaxation of working hours for student visa holders.
These aged care providers should see the letter provided to them by the
Department of Health for further details.
These measures only apply to existing workers in their existing roles.
They are temporary measures and will be reviewed by the government regularly.
Employers will be advised in writing when these considerations no longer
apply.


Industry and employers
Nursing
Student visa holders already enrolled in nursing can undertake work to help
and support the health effort against COVID-19 as directed by health
officials. We will not take any enforcement action regarding student nurses
working in these circumstances.


Industry and employers
Protecting vulnerable workers in operations and supply chains
Changes to business operations and structures due to COVID-19 may
significantly impact some workers, in Australia and overseas, and increase
their vulnerability to modern slavery and other forms of exploitation. The
government is encouraging employers and industry to be aware of the risks and
take steps to protect vulnerable workers.
See Modern Slavery Act: Information for reporting entities about the impacts
of Coronavirus


Industry and employers
Airline industry
From 2100 AEDT 20 March 2020, airline staff should ensure that only exempt
travellers board a flight to Australia. Where possible, the Australian
Advanced Passenger Processing system will be used to deny uplift for all other
travellers.
The Australian Government will honour all “okay to board” messages that
airlines receive.
Airlines must contact the Australian Border Force Border Operations Centre
prior to non-exempt travellers boarding the flight.
Airline crew (including medivac crew) are exempt from the travel restrictions.
Airline crew are advised to take particular care on lay-overs, to use
dedicated private transport and to avoid crowded public spaces.
Airline crew should monitor for symptoms and not fly if they are ill. This
includes off-shift crew who are travelling as passengers on an aircraft to
reposition at another location. The same process is to be followed for this
cohort as on-shift crew.
Airline crew are required to self-isolate in their accommodation, if they
enter Australia, until their next work flight.


Industry and employers
Cruise ship industry
As of 15 March 2020 there is a full restriction on arrivals of any cruise ship
that has left a foreign port. The restrictions are inclusive of direct
arrivals and Round Trip Cruises (RTC).
This measure will be reviewed after 30 days.
The health, welfare and safety of Australians, both at home and overseas, is
the highest priority of the Australian Government.
From 1am AEDST 16 March 2020, Australia will deny entry to any cruise ship
that has left a foreign port, with the exception of:

Australian-flagged vessels.
International cruise ships en route having departed their last overseas port and destined for Australia.
Australian cruise vessels (domestic cruise ships) operating within the Australian Exclusive Economic Zone can continue to operate without restriction.
Round Trip Cruises that are already in progress and currently returning to Australia.

Cruise ships that do not meet the above exemptions, may be approved through
the Maritime Traveller Processing Committee (MTPC). These approved cruise
ships will be required to go to Brisbane or Sydney.
Crew
Cruise ship crew must self-isolate for 14 days or for the duration of their
stay whichever is shorter.


Information for employers
Eligibility
As part of the application process, businesses and not-for-profits need to
assess that they have or will likely experience the required turnover decline.
Employers (including not-for-profits) will be eligible for the subsidy if:

their business has an aggregated turnover of less than $1 billion (for income tax purposes) and they estimate their GST turnover has fallen or will likely fall by 30 per cent or more; or
their business has an aggregated turnover of $1 billion or more (for income tax purposes) and they estimate their GST turnover has fallen or will likely fall by 50 per cent or more.

An employer is not eligible for the JobKeeper payment if:

the Major Bank Levy was imposed on the entity or a member of its consolidated group for any quarter before 1 March 2020;
the entity is an Australian government agency (within the meaning of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997);
the entity is a local governing body;
the entity is wholly owned by an Australian government agency or local governing body;
the entity is a sovereign entity or an entity owned by a sovereign entity;
the entity is a company in liquidation; or
the entity is an individual who has entered bankruptcy.

The Tax Commissioner has discretion to consider additional information that
the business or not-for-profit can provide to establish that they have been
significantly affected by the impacts of the coronavirus.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Who must go into isolation
You will need to isolate to prevent the spread of the virus to others if:

you have COVID-19
health authorities suspect you have COVID-19

You will need to isolate in:

hospital if you need hospital care
your home if it is suitable
another location if needed as decided by your public health authority

The public health authority will advise you when you can leave.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
What is isolation?
A person with coronavirus (COVID-19) or suspected to have it must enter
mandatory isolation.
Isolation is different from quarantine and physical
distancing.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Cleaning
Clean all 'high-touch' surfaces at least once per day wearing water-proof
disposable gloves. This includes:

benchtops
tabletops
doorknobs
bathroom fixtures
toilets
bedside tables
phones
computer keyboards
tablets

You should also clean any surfaces that may have blood, body fluids and/or
secretions on them.
Read labels of cleaning products and follow the instructions for use. Labels
contain instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product. They
also include precautions you should take when applying the product.
There are 2 options for cleaning something:

a 2-step cleaning process, where you clean something with detergent and then disinfect it
a 1-step process, where you use a combined detergent and disinfectant product.

The disinfectant you use should say on the label it is hospital-grade that
kills viruses. You can also use a chlorine-based product such as bleach.
If you are cleaning something for another person who has COVID-19 you should:

wear a mask and disposable gloves when handling soiled items
wash your hands immediately after removing gloves and masks
wash laundry. Do not shake the laundry items before washing
remove and wash clothes or bedding that has blood, body fluids and/or secretions on them
read and follow the directions on laundry items and detergent. Wash and dry with the warmest temperatures recommended on the label
wash dishes in a dishwasher where possible

Put gloves, masks, and other contaminated items in a lined waste bin before
disposing of them with other household waste. Wash your hands immediately
after handling these items.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Support services
There are a range of support services available to help you. You can do the
following:

Visit Head to Health for links to trusted Australian mental health online and phone supports, resources and treatment options. This useful website also has online programs and forums, as well as a range of digital information resources.

Contact your local state and territory health departments.

National Coronavirus Helpline
Call this line if you are seeking information on coronavirus (COVID-19) or
help with the COVIDSafe app. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a
week.
1800 020 080
View contact
Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
TIS National is for people who do not speak English and for agencies and
businesses that need to communicate with their non-English speaking clients.
131 450 Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS
National)
View contact


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Steps other members of the household and caregivers can take to prevent infection
You should only share a house with a person with COVID-19 if:

you are providing essential care to that person
you cannot find a different place to live

People who stay in the same place as someone with COVID-19 will be a close
contact and must follow quarantine rules. People should
follow these rules for 14 days from when the person with COVID-19 was last
infectious.
Wash your hands
Wash your hands often and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20
seconds. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if your hands are not
visibly dirty. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Always wash your hands before putting on and after taking off gloves and
masks.
Wear a mask
Wear disposable masks and gloves when:

you are in the same room as the person with COVID-19
you touch or have contact with the person’s blood, body fluids and/or secretions

You should:

make sure your mask covers your nose and mouth at all times
throw out masks and gloves after use
wash your hands immediately after taking off masks and gloves

Monitor symptoms
If you are a caregiver or household member and develop a cold or flu-like
symptoms you should call your GP or
healthdirect. Tell them you are a close
contact of someone with COVID-19.
If you become very unwell and it is a medical emergency call 000.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
How to get food and medication
You can get food and medication while in isolation in the following ways:

Ask friends or family members you don’t live with to get food and medication to leave at your door. If you need a prescription filled arrange this with your usual pharmacist or GP. You can then let your friend or family member know where to go to collect the medication.
Arrange a food delivery service. Have all food left outside your house. Do not let any delivery person into your home.
If you need a prescription filled, you can arrange for your doctor to send your prescription to your pharmacy. They can then deliver it to your house. Read more about getting medicines and accessing health services.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Living with other people while in isolation
If you share your home with others, you should limit your contact with them.
Do this by:

staying alone in your own room
using a different bathroom, if possible
avoiding shared areas
wearing a mask when in the same room as others
not being in the same room as other people, especially people at risk of severe disease (this includes elderly people and people with heart, lung, or kidney conditions and diabetes)
practising good hand hygiene and covering coughs and sneezes
not sharing household items
frequently cleaning the house, especially things people touch often, like door handles

Cover coughs and sneezes
Practise good cough and sneeze hygiene:

cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
if you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow
place used tissues in a bin
wash your hands straight away with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or
use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser

Wash your hands regularly
You should wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if your hands are not visibly
dirty.
Always do this:

before entering an area where there are other people
before touching things used by other people
after using the bathroom
after coughing or sneezing
before putting on, and after removing, gloves and masks.

Wear a mask
Wear a mask when you are:

in the same room as another person, even if they are also in isolation
passing through communal areas
you visit a health care provider

Make sure your mask covers your nose and mouth at all times. Don’t touch your
mask unnecessarily and replace it if it is wet.
Don’t share household items
You should not share items with people in your home if possible, including:

dishes
drinking glasses
cups
cutlery
towels
bedding

After using these items, wash them with soap and water or put them in a
dishwasher or washing machine.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Returning to your community
Your Public health Unit will advise you when you are clear to end isolation
and return to normal activities.
You must continue to practise physical distancing, and good
hygiene.
If you become unwell and have any cold or flu like symptoms return home and
contact your doctor.


Isolation for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Steps you need to take while in isolation
If you are not at home when you find out you have COVID-19, you must go
straight home. You cannot stop anywhere, not even to buy medicine or
groceries. Where possible, use personal transport such as a private car.
You must stay isolated until your public health authority advises you are safe
to leave. If you leave isolation without permission you may face criminal
charges or a fine.
Isolation means you:

must not leave your home except in an emergency or to get essential medical care
must not go into public places including work and shops
must not let any other person into your home unless the person
lives with you and cannot live somewhere else
is providing medical care for you
is entering for an emergency

You should tell your public health unit before leaving your house if possible.
If you leave, you must wear a mask.
If you live in a house, you may go into your garden or courtyard. You can go
onto your balcony if you live in an apartment or are staying in a hotel.
If you are in a hotel you must avoid contact with other guests and staff.
Monitor symptoms
If your symptoms get worse phone your doctor. You should be on the lookout for
high fevers or trouble breathing.
Keep in contact with your GP so they can monitor your health.
If you are having serious symptoms you should call 000 straight away. This
includes shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or chest pressure or pain.
Tell the ambulance staff you have COVID-19.
If you live alone, a friend or family member can ring you to check you are OK.


Job seekers
JobKeeper payment
If you or your partner get income from JobKeeper
payment, you must report it to us if you also get
JobSeeker Payment. Read about how to report income from JobKeeper
payment.
JobKeeper payment is paid to your eligible employer by the Australian Taxation
Office (ATO). Your employer will tell you if they’re eligible and pay you
JobKeeper payment as part of your usual wages.
Talk to your employer to find out if they are going to pay you through the
JobKeeper Payment scheme. You don’t need to call or visit us.


Job seekers
Mutual obligation requirements
We’ve suspended mutual obligation requirements for:

JobSeeker Payment
Youth Allowance as a job seeker
Parenting Payment
Special Benefit.

We’ll let you know when they start again.
You can still choose to:

attend phone or online appointments with your provider
do the online activities in your Job Plan.

However, it won’t affect your payment if you don’t do these things.
You still need to report your income every fortnight so we pay you the right amount. Tell us if
you report the wrong income. Tell us also about any changes in your
circumstances. If you don’t, we may pay you too much. This means you’ll have a
debt to pay back.
We may be able to exempt you from your requirements if you’re impacted by
coronavirus. If you’re in isolation at home, we’ll grant you an exemption for
up to 14 days.
For us to do this you need to tell us as soon as possible after you’re
isolated by calling us on your
regular payment line. You need to tell us why you’re isolated, for example, if
any of the following apply:

a doctor or government authority has told you to isolate yourself because of possible exposure to coronavirus
you need to isolate yourself after reading the latest health alerts from the Department of Health.

You don’t need to give us proof to support your exemption. However, if you
need to stay in isolation longer, you’ll need to call
us on your regular payment line
to update us on your circumstances.
If you’re a principal carer you may also be exempt. You may be exempt if
either:

your child’s childcare centre has closed
you’re caring for an adult with a disability or special needs whose day service or supported workplace premises closes.

You’ll need to call us on your
regular payment line to let us know.


JobKeeper Payment
Keeping the system fair
If you have questions about workplace entitlements and obligations in relation
to the JobKeeper Payment scheme, the Fair Work Commission has released
guidance on how it can assist with JobKeeper disputesExternal
Link.
If you are concerned that someone is doing the wrong thing in relation to
JobKeeper payment, you can tell us about it. To report illegal or behaviour of
concern, see Making a tip off.
ATO information on JobKeeper Payment support for businesses significantly
affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19).


Leaving Australia
Australians and permanent residents
If you are an Australian citizen or a permanent resident you cannot leave
Australia due to COVID-19 restrictions **** unless you have an exemption. You
can apply online but you must meet at least one of the
following:

your travel is as part of the response to the COVID-19 outbreak, including the provision of aid
your travel is essential for the conduct of critical industries and business (including export and import industries)
you are travelling to receive urgent medical treatment that is not available in Australia
you are travelling on urgent and unavoidable personal business
you are travelling on compassionate or humanitarian grounds
your travel is in the national interest.

You must provide evidence to support your claims that may include:

passport/s
marriage certificate/s
birth certificate/s
death certificate/s
proof of relationship (for example, shared tenancy agreement, joint bank account etc.)
visa status
proof that you are moving to another country on a long term basis such as leases, job offers and evidence your goods are being transported
your current visa status, including in Australia and/or overseas
letter from a doctor or hospital about any medical treatment/condition with statements on why travel is necessary
letter from an employer showing why the travel is necessary or that the work undertaken by you is critical
statement or evidence to show when you wish to return to Australia
any other proof you may have to support your claims.

All evidence supporting a travel exemption claim needs to be officially
translated into English. ****
You should apply for an exemption at least 48 hours before, but not more
than 3 months before your planned travel.
If you are not granted an exemption, you should not continue with your
travel plans. If granted an exemption, you must take evidence of that
exemption decision to the airport.
You will not need to apply for an exemption if you are:

ordinarily resident in a country other than Australia
an airline, maritime crew or associated safety worker
a New Zealand citizen holding a Special Category (subclass 444) visa
engaged in the day-to-day conduct of outbound freight
associated with essential work at offshore facilities
travelling on official government business, including members of the Australian Defence Force.


Leaving Australia
Non-citizens
Due to the current COVID-19 situation in Australia, including state and
territory border restrictions, business closures and social distancing
requirements, international visitors are encouraged to return home when
possible to do so.
Temporary visa holders should be aware that if they wish to return to
Australia while COVID-19 restrictions are in place, they will generally need a
travel exemption. For more information about the Commissioner’s Exemption, see
Coming to Australia.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Schools
The health advice on schools has not changed. The Australian Health
Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) advises it is safe for schools to
be open with students attending.
States and territories are making decisions regarding schools based on local
circumstances. Visit your state or territory government website for more
information.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Aged care facilities
Special restrictions remain in place for aged care
facilities to protect older Australians. On 21 April, the Australian Health
Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) updated their advice for residential
aged care facilities.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Why these limits are important
The 3-Step Plan to a COVIDSafe Australia maps out a pathway states and territories
can take to ease restrictions in the coming months, depending on their
circumstances. Each state and territory will move forward at their own pace.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Community sport and recreation
A set of National Principles as well as the Australian Institute of Sport’s (AIS) Framework
for Rebooting Sport in a COVID-19
Environment, will guide a staged
resumption of sport and recreation in Australia.
The National Principles will make clear how sport and recreational activities
can only occur. Stringent public and personal health measures will need to be
in place.
Sport and recreation activities will resume in stages, guided by the
Framework. This applies to high performance, community, and individual
activities.
A specialist COVID-19 Sports and Health Committee will also be established. It
will include relevant sports medicine and health experts from the AIS, sports,
and governments to monitor and support the resumption process. It will report
to the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee.
See our advice on exercising and staying active during COVID-19
restrictions.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Physical distancing and hygiene
Everyone should continue keeping their distance from other people whenever
possible. When we are around other people, it is important we practice
physical distancing – also called social distancing – and
good hygiene. You should also consider downloading the
COVIDSafe app, which works
alongside physical distancing, good hygiene and enhanced testing to stop the
spread of coronavirus.


Limits on public gatherings for coronavirus (COVID-19)
States and territories
State and territory governments have different restrictions in place for
public gatherings. Please visit your state or territory website for more
information.

Australian Capital Territory COVID-19 site
New South Wales COVID-19 site
Northern Territory COVID-19 site
Queensland COVID-19 site
South Australia COVID-19 site
Tasmania COVID-19 site
Victoria COVID-19 site
Western Australia COVID-19 site


Looking after your mental health during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
How we might be feeling and why
On top of the concern we’re all feeling about the health impacts of a virus
like this one, COVID-19 has turned our lives upside down.
All of the things we’re used to doing each week — going to school and work,
catching up with friends and family, going out for dinner, playing sport,
going on holidays — have changed.
Many people have lost their jobs and there is uncertainty about how COVID-19
will affect jobs and the economy into the future.
And for people working in health care and essential services, work pressures
have never been greater.
Under these circumstances, it’s normal to feel anxious, overwhelmed, confused,
sad or even bored. But these feelings can take their toll, and we all need to
take the time to care for ourselves and to look out for our friends, family
and colleagues.


Looking after your mental health during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Why it’s important to look after your mental health during COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly changed the way we live. To help keep us
safe, it is likely that our lives will be different for a while.
When we aren’t able to see our friends and family regularly, it can be harder
to keep on top of how we’re feeling.
Being aware of how you’re feeling and knowing what you can do to look after
your mental wellbeing is an important part of staying healthy during this
challenging time.


Looking after your mental health during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
Get help now
If you need help right now, it is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
anywhere in Australia.
In an emergency, call 000.
Lifeline
Contact Lifeline for support if you are experiencing a personal crisis or have
suicidal thoughts. You can call them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from
anywhere in Australia.
Lifeline 24-hour crisis line 131 114 Lifeline
Australia Postal addresses: PO Box 173 Deakin
ACT 2600
View contact
Kids Helpline contact
Kids Helpline provides a free, private and confidential phone and online
counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. The service is available 24
hours a day from anywhere in Australia.
1800 551 800 Kids Helpline
View contact
Suicide Call Back Service
Call the Suicide Call Back Service for immediate, professional 24/7 telephone
and online counselling to people who are affected by suicide.
1300 659 467 Suicide Call Back
Service
View contact
Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service
Beyond Blue are providing information, advice and strategies to help you
manage your wellbeing and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hotline 1800512348 Beyond Blue Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing
Support Service
View contact


Looking after your mental health during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions
What you can do
There are things you can do to take care of your mental health and wellbeing.
Look after your physical health
Exercising and eating well help us stay physically and mentally healthy. Read
more about how you can stay physically active while following physical distancing rules, and find
tips on eating well at home.
Getting a good night’s sleep is a really important part of staying healthy. If
you’re finding it hard to get to sleep, these tips might
help.
Stay connected
Maintaining social connections is important to feeling safe and well.
You can still keep in touch with family and friends while you practise
physical distancing through:

video chats
phone calls
online groups
chats with neighbours while keeping 1.5 metres apart

Develop new routines
We’re used to having routines to guide our days and give us a sense of
achievement. When so much seems out of our control, establishing some
structure in our days will help to provide stability and a ‘new normal’.
This is particularly challenging for families adjusting to home learning. Try
to create new routines as a family to help separate ‘work and school time’ and
‘family time’.
Think about the parts of your usual routine you value the most and find ways
to make these part of your day — such as having lunch with colleagues via
video chat, or finding an online gym class.
Take breaks
Be kind to yourself and take time just for you, even if it is just a few
minutes to take some deep breaths and step outside into the fresh air.
Plan your breaks and use them to do something that makes you feel calm and
happy.
Reach out to others
Some people are particularly vulnerable for different reasons. They may be
older, live on their own, have a chronic medical condition, or live in a
challenging home situation.
Reaching out to give people support, if you are able, can help your mental
wellbeing and make a big difference to someone else’s life.
Seek support
It’s normal to have ups and downs, and it is important to talk about how
you’re feeling with family and friends. In times like these, they are likely
experiencing similar feelings.
If you want to talk to someone else, but aren’t sure where to start, there are
lots of great online and phone chat support services available. Head to
Health is a good place
to begin, and Beyond Blue has launched a dedicated coronavirus online and
phone support service.
But if you are feeling anxious or depressed for an extended period, see a
health professional.
Doctors and other health care providers such as psychologists are consulting
via video or phone. Find out more about telehealth options.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Mental health for patients and carers
For mental health information for patients and carers, see our page about
looking after your mental health.
More resources for the general public are available at our coronavirus
(COVID-19) resources collection.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Keeping mentally healthy
Publications and fact sheets

Comcare — Looking after your mental health
Beyond Blue — Protecting your mental health and wellbeing as a healthcare worker and their Mental Wellbeing Support Service
Australian Psychological Society — Tips for coping with coronavirus anxiety
Headspace — How to cope with stress related to coronavirus (COVID-19)
Black Dog Institute — TEN: The Essential Network for health professionals and Coronavirus anxiety resources
Safe Work Australia — Information on COVID-19 and work health and safety

Check the Head to Health
website for:

links information, advice, and free or low-cost phone and online mental health supports and services
resources and services (including COVID specific) that can help if you’re experiencing mental health concerns or trying to support someone else

More resources for health care workers are available at our coronavirus
(COVID-19) resources collection.
Read about Australia’s National Mental Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Response
Plan. It responds to the mental health and wellbeing needs
of all Australians during the response and in recovery from the COVID-19
pandemic. This plan has been developed under the co-leadership of Victoria,
New South Wales and the Australian Government and has been informed by all
jurisdictions.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Get urgent help
If you need help right now, it is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
anywhere in Australia.
In an emergency, call 000.
Lifeline
Contact Lifeline for support if you are experiencing a personal crisis or have
suicidal thoughts. You can call them 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from
anywhere in Australia.
Lifeline 24-hour crisis line 131 114 Lifeline
Australia Postal addresses: PO Box 173 Deakin
ACT 2600
View contact
Kids Helpline contact
Kids Helpline provides a free, private and confidential phone and online
counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25. The service is available 24
hours a day from anywhere in Australia.
1800 551 800 Kids Helpline
View contact
Suicide Call Back Service
Call the Suicide Call Back Service for immediate, professional 24/7 telephone
and online counselling to people who are affected by suicide.
1300 659 467 Suicide Call Back
Service
View contact


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Keeping mentally healthy
Take breaks
Be kind to yourself, and take breaks during your shifts, even if it is just a
few minutes to catch your breath. Managers and supervisors should ensure staff
take regular breaks to reduce stress.
Between shifts, get as much rest as you can, and try to take time for yourself
to do things you enjoy. Managers and supervisors should make sure staff have
enough time between shifts to rest, sleep and prepare for the next day.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Keeping mentally healthy
Connect
Keep in regular contact with family and friends, even if you are isolating,
through:

video chats
phone calls
online groups

Talk about your shared experiences with your colleagues or manager — they are
going through the same thing and can offer valuable support.
Managers and supervisors should encourage staff to express any concerns about
their mental health, as it might indicate broader issues across their
workforce.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Why mental health is important for health workers
Health workers at the centre of the COVID-19 pandemic are critical in the
fight against the virus.
Measures like social distancing and isolation are helping to slow its spread.
But health workers still face extreme pressure from the increased demand on
the health care system.
Long and irregular hours and heavy workloads can increase stress and cause
mental health issues, including burnout. Managers and supervisors should be
sensitive to the issues that might affect their employees.
Looking after yourself, your mental health and wellbeing is critical in these
tough times.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
How health workers might be feeling
The COVID-19 pandemic is putting significant psychological pressure on health
workers.
Unprecedented demand on their time and skills can make it hard to take time
off.
Even when taking all precautions, there is a constant worry about being
exposed to the virus, and unknowingly spreading it to patients and family.
Many health workers have to avoid contact with vulnerable family members,
causing further social isolation.
Intense media scrutiny and a lack of understanding from the community,
including hostility at times, adds to the stress.
Feeling under pressure is normal in the current situation. But these
compounding pressures can lead to more serious anxiety, depression, post-
traumatic stress disorder and burnout.
Looking after your mental health and psychosocial wellbeing is important to
help you cope in the longer term. This is not a sprint; it’s a marathon.


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Keeping mentally healthy
Online training
A 30-minute online module — COVID-19 infection control
training — is
available for care workers across all health care settings.
This training is hosted on an external site, provided by our COVID-19 training
partner Aspen Medical.
Register now


Mental health for the health workforce during COVID-19
Keeping mentally healthy
Seek support
It’s important to share your feelings with your family, friends, and
colleagues. But if you are feeling anxious or depressed for an extended
period, see a health professional.
Doctors, and other health care providers, including psychologists, can consult
via video or phone. Find out more about telehealth options, or find mental health support
contacts.
As a manager or supervisor, if a staff member tells you about the mental
health challenges they are experiencing, help them find support, including at
Head to Health.
It is important to respect the privacy of staff who are dealing with complex
personal and mental health issues and might not wish to discuss these at work.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: Children are ‘super spreaders’ of coronavirus
TRUE: While children are known to be ‘super spreaders’ of germs and bugs
generally, certainly for influenza they can be, this does not appear to be the
case with coronavirus. At least not yet. There is no data anywhere in the
world that shows that major spreading of this virus has occurred with
children. We're not ruling this out. It is possible. But all the evidence is
that they are not super spreaders of coronavirus.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: You can treat coronavirus with antibiotics or antimalarial medicines
TRUE: There is no vaccine or treatment for coronavirus yet.
Researchers around the world are working hard to develop a vaccine for the
virus but we don’t know how long this will take. Estimates vary between 12 or
18 months.
Researchers are also looking into the use of different medicines that may help
treat coronavirus including arthritis, anti-malaria and HIV medicines. They
will not cure coronavirus but it may decrease the number of people who get the
virus and the severity of cases.
It is important, therefore, to not wait around for a vaccine or treatment for
coronavirus – and that’s why so many public health measures have been adopted
by Australia.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: Testing everyone will stop the spread of coronavirus TRUE: Testing does not stop the spread of the virus.
Like any virus, COVID-19 moves from one person to another. Only social
distancing at all times, and home quarantining if you are unwell can stop the
spread of the virus.
Testing to confirm whether someone who is displaying symptoms has COVID-19
helps us track the spread of the disease and reduce transmission. If we know
someone has it, that person can isolate themselves and we can track who they
have been in contact with and reduce the risk of further transmission.
However, testing negative to COVID-19 doesn’t mean you’re not at risk yourself
or a risk to others. You can test negative to COVID-19 after you’ve been
exposed but before you develop symptoms. You can test negative one day, and
catch COVID-19 the next day. That is why it is so important to practise good
hygiene and social distancing, and to stay at home except for the essentials.
This is helping prevent the transmission of not only COVID-19 but other
diseases as well, reducing demand on our health services.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: Testing kits are not accurate
TRUE: The current testing for COVID-19 uses what is called nucleic acid
amplification (Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)), which is very accurate. The
test involves a health professional taking a swab specimen from the person's
throat and nose. Currently, all test components are manufactured overseas,
predominantly in Europe and Asia. While multiple suppliers of the testing
components and laboratories across and within states and territories use
different components, the important fact is that they use the same testing
methodologies. There is a strain on all testing related supplies due to global
demand far exceeding supply and production capacity. Point of care antibody
tests are not accurate for diagnosis and are therefore not recommended for
that purpose.
The Australian Government is working closely with laboratories through the
Public Health Laboratory Network and with suppliers in order to secure
supplies and explore potential alternative supply solutions to ensure that
Australia maintains the capacity and capability to test for coronavirus.
Access this website regularly to stay informed about key developments in the
Australian Government’s response to COVID-19.
SBS ___also has a
range of information on COVID-19 in your language. You can also use mobile
phone apps and browser extensions to translate government information. Search
for one that meets your needs._
To access additional information in English, visit www.australia.gov.au
.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: A two week lockdown will stop the spread of coronavirus
TRUE: Imposing restrictions for two or three weeks and then lifting them
and returning to our normal lives will not stop the spread of coronavirus.
The risk of only a two week lockdown is coronavirus would rear its ugly head
again, perhaps more aggressively than before.
Some people have asked why we haven’t imposed a blanket lockdown like other
countries have done. The answer to this is that, unlike countries such as
Italy, Spain and Iran, and cities such as Wuhan in China, where the outbreak
began, we have remained ahead of the curve.
By the time health experts in these countries recognised what was occurring,
coronavirus was out of control and spreading like wildfire. This is why
hospitals in these countries have struggled to cope with people with severe
forms of the disease.
Our health experts will continue to monitor the number of new cases each day
in Australia and where transmission is taking place. They will then make
recommendations based on the evidence as to any new rules or restrictions that
need to be put in place. Everyone should stay up to date with current
restrictions by visiting www.australia.gov.au.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: Australia can’t obtain enough medical equipment and supplies (ventilators, masks, testing kits)
TRUE: The simple message to patients and, crucially, the health workers
who look after them, is – yes, Australia has enough equipment to fight this
pandemic. However, there is a strain on all testing related supplies due to
global demand far exceeding supply and production capacity.
Staff can be assured that we have personal protective equipment coming in all
the time, which means, in turn, that patients can get the best possible care.
For instance, the National Medical Stockpile has more than 10 million masks.
The Australian Government continues to work to secure additional masks to
ensure the National Medical Stockpile remains well stocked, and Australia has
enough personal protective equipment to support our medical professionals as
the pandemic unfolds. This includes boosting domestic manufacturing capability
and capacity.
There are usually 2,200 ventilated hospital beds in Australia. By repurposing
anaesthetic machines and other equipment over the past six weeks, we now have
4,400 ventilated beds, and we're looking to make that 7,500. At the start of
April, the number of patients with coronavirus in intensive care units and
needing ventilators was 20.
The Communicable Diseases Network Australia is meeting daily to reassess its
guidance on testing requirements, so that only essential testing is being
undertaken.


Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
Misinformation and truths about Coronavirus
FALSE: Australia’s hospitals won’t be able to cope with increased demand due to coronavirus
TRUE: Australia’s public and private hospitals have joined forces in the
fight against coronavirus. An historic partnership between the Australian
Government, state and territory governments and the private hospital sector
will make available an extra 34,000 beds and 105,000 medical staff nationally
to help fight coronavirus.
The private sector will provide hospital services to public patients, making
its equipment, beds, supplies and staff available to supplement the public
system.
They will also continue to support the needs of long-stay public hospital
National Disability Insurance Scheme participants, and aged care patients and
general needs patients.
The partnership will ensure the full resources of Australia’s world-class
health system are ready and focused on treating patients as required through
the pandemic.


Not-for-profit organisations
JobKeeper Payment
Not-for-profits including charities who have experienced a decline in turnover
as a result of the Coronavirus may be eligible to apply for the JobKeeper
Payment.
Under this scheme, employers impacted by the Coronavirus will be able to
access a subsidy from the Government to continue paying eligible employees.
The fortnightly subsidy of $1,500 per eligible employee will start on 30 March
2020, with the first payments to be received by employers from the ATO from
first week of May.
Not-for-profits will be eligible for the JobKeeper Payment if, at the time
of applying:

they have an aggregated turnover of less than $1 billion (for income tax purposes) and they estimate their GST turnover has fallen or will likely fall by 30 per cent or more; or
they have an aggregated turnover of $1 billion or more (for income tax purposes) and they estimate their GST turnover has fallen or will fall by 50 per cent or more.

Charities registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits
Commission (ACNC) will be eligible for the subsidy if they estimate their
turnover has or will likely fall by 15 per cent or more relative to a
comparable period.
Not-for-profits and charities can register for the JobKeeper Payment on the
ATO’s website.


Not-for-profit organisations
Boosting cash flow
The Government is providing temporary cash flow assistance to support the
activities of not-for-profits including charities at a time when they are
facing increased demand for services.
This assistance involves two sets of cash flow boosts delivered in April and
July-October 2020 to support employers to retain employees.
The Government will provide tax-free cash flow boosts of between $20,000 and
$100,000 to eligible not-for-profits, delivered through credits in the
activity statement system.


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
PPE for the general public
For PPE advice for the general public, see:

use of surgical masks
how to protect yourself and others

Online training
A 30-minute online module — COVID-19 infection control
training — is
available for care workers across all health care settings.
This training is hosted on an external site, provided by our COVID-19 training
partner Aspen Medical.
Register now
Publications and fact sheets
See our resources for health professionals on
PPE.
Guidance on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in hospitals
during the COVID-19 outbreak
An information sheet about the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
during hospital care of people with coronavirus (COVID-19).
Coronavirus (COVID-19) resources for health professionals, including aged
care providers, pathology providers and health care
managers
A collection of resources for health professionals, including aged care
providers, pathology providers and health care managers, about coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Webinars
View our webinars on the COVID-19 response for the health and aged care
sector.


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
How we’re managing PPE supply
There is a global shortage of PPE. We are working to increase our National
Medical Stockpile and
provide more PPE.
We ask the health workforce to use PPE conservatively where possible.
The Australian Government is:

working with local industry to increase local production of PPE
working with international suppliers
allocating PPE as we receive them

Until we have enough for everyone, our priority is to ensure staff in
frontline health services likely to come into contact with people with
COVID-19 have PPE. This includes:

public hospitals
general practices
community pharmacies
other settings where people are most likely to present with COVID-19
aged care providers (if there is an outbreak)


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
Accessing PPE
Primary Health Networks
(PHN) can provide masks and respirators from the National Medical
Stockpile to:

general practitioners (GPs)
Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) and Health Services
community pharmacies

PHNs can provide masks to allied health professionals in some circumstances.
Allied health professionals may be eligible if:

the masks are for staff to use
there is no commercial supply available
they are working in higher-risk clinical areas, and with higher risk vulnerable patients

PHNs will also consider whether the allied health professional can adjust how
they practice to reduce risk.
For information about PPE standards, read regulation of PPE and
COVID-19 on the Therapeutic Goods Administration website.
Read more about how we manage the limited supply of
PPE.
Eligibility for surgical masks from PHNs
PHNs will provide surgical masks to GPs and ACCHOs if they have a
demonstrated need. This includes:

there is no local supply available commercially
the people coming to your practice are more likely to have been exposed to COVID-19
your practice has an unusual number of patients who have respiratory symptoms

PHNs will provide surgical masks to community pharmacies if they meet
both of the criteria below:

there is no local supply available commercially
staff have significant contact with people who have fever and respiratory symptoms

Eligibility for respirators from PHNs
PHNs will provide respirators to GPs and ACCHOs who:

need to assess suspected COVID-19 cases
do not have respiratory clinics or emergency departments nearby

These practices must have:

isolation facilities and other appropriate infrastructure
staff who are trained in using PPE
a pandemic plan

You must use respirators with other PPE (gowns, gloves and eye protection).
Requesting masks and respirators from PHNs
When you contact your PHN to make a request, explain how you meet the
eligibility requirements.
For the contact details of your PHN, use the PHN map
locator.
If you’re eligible
Generally, PHNs will provide:

2 boxes of 50 surgical masks to each practice
1 box of 50 surgical masks to each community pharmacy

Depending on stock levels, they may give you more. They will consider the size
of your practice or other demonstrated need.
You can give these surgical masks to:

your staff to use for their protection
patients and customers who may have COVID-19
patients and customers who have a confirmed case of COVID-19

We have supplied PHNs with a small number of respirators. They will conserve
these stocks as far as possible.
You must not sell these masks or respirators as commercial stock.


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
How to use PPE
Wear the following PPE when caring for someone with suspected or confirmed
COVID-19:

long-sleeved gown
surgical mask
face shield, goggles or safety glasses
disposable non-sterile gloves

Use a P2/N95 respirator instead of a surgical mask for:

frequent close contact with patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19
procedures that generate aerosols

Fit-check your P2/N95 respirator with each use.
After the consultation or patient contact, remove your PPE. Perform hand
hygiene after each individual PPE item is removed.
When removing PPE, do not touch the front of any item. Perform hand hygiene if
you think contamination has occurred at any point.
You should also use PPE to protect yourself when cleaning or
disinfecting.
For more detail, see:

guidance on the use of PPE in hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak
COVID-19 information for paramedics and ambulance first responders, including use of PPE
wearing PPE for allied health professionals video
the use of face masks and respirators in the context of COVID-19


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
Why use PPE?
PPE protects the wearer from infection. Proper use helps keep health workers
safe and stops the spread of COVID-19.


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
Who should use PPE
You do not always have to use PPE when providing treatment or care.
Use PPE if you:

care for someone suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19
assess or collect specimens from people who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19
have significant contact with people who have fever or respiratory symptoms that suggest COVID- 19

Give surgical masks to patients to wear straight away if they:

are under quarantine or investigation for COVID-19
are suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19
have fever or respiratory symptoms

If you do not have the appropriate PPE to assess patients or collect
specimens, refer the person to a collection centre, a GP respiratory
clinic
or emergency department.
Aged care workers should see using and getting PPE in aged
care, use of surgical masks and how to protect
yourself and others.


Personal protective equipment (PPE) for the health workforce during COVID-19
Informing patients about PPE
When communicating with patients, explain:

you do not always need to wear PPE if you are both well
if you wear a mask or other PPE it is for their and your protection

If people in your practice wear PPE, you may want to provide signage near the
entrance advising this is to protect patients and staff.
If you are a health practitioner providing in-home care, let the patient know
in advance that you may wear a mask or other PPE when visiting their home.


Physical distancing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Households
Australians should check their state or territory government
restrictions to find out
more about the restrictions in place where they live. As states and
territories move through the steps in the 3–step framework for a COVIDSafe
Australia, restrictions will reduce.
If you are allowed to have visitors at home, you still need to maintain 1.5
metres between people from different households. Keeping visitors to a minimum
will help to reduce the spread of the virus throughout the community.
If someone in your household is sick with cold or flu symptoms, you should:

care for the sick person in a single room, if possible
keep the number of carers to a minimum
keep the door to the sick person’s room closed. If possible, keep a window open
wear a surgical mask when you are in the same room as the sick person. The sick person should also wear a mask when other people are in the same room
protect at-risk family members by keeping them away from the sick person. If possible, find them somewhere else to live while the family member is sick
seek medical advice and have them tested for COVID-19


Physical distancing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
In schools
If your child is sick, they must not go to school or childcare. You must keep
them at home and away from others.
To reduce the spread of viruses or germs in schools students and staff should
continue to practise good hygiene.
The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) has issued
updated advice on reducing the potential risk of COVID-19 transmission in
schools.
The AHPPC also issued a statement on risk management for re-opening boarding
schools and school-based residential colleges.
For more information on school
operations, visit the
Department of Education, Skills and Employment website.


Physical distancing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
At work
You should work from home if it works for you and your employer. If you cannot
work from home and you are sick, you must not attend your workplace. You must
stay at home and away from others.
All workplaces must develop a COVID-19 plan in line with:

the National COVID-19 Coordination Commission (NCCC) online planning tool
the Safe Work Australia National COVID-19 Safe Workplace Principles

Safe Work Australia has resources for workplaces including information about
workers’ rights.
The Department of Education, Skills and Employment
website also has information for students,
parents, education providers, job seekers and employers.
To protect yourself, your co-workers and your customers:

stop shaking hands to greet others
avoid non-essential meetings. If needed, hold meetings via video conferencing or phone call
put off large meetings to a later date
hold essential meetings outside in the open air if possible
promote good hand, sneeze and cough hygiene
provide alcohol-based hand rub for all staff
eat lunch at your desk or outside rather than in the lunch room
regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that many people touch
open windows or adjust air conditioning for more ventilation
limit food handling and sharing of food in the workplace
avoid non-essential travel
promote strict hygiene among food preparation (canteen) staff and their close contacts


Physical distancing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Keep your distance
One way to slow the spread of viruses, such as coronavirus, is physical
distancing.
The more space between you and others, the harder it is for the virus to
spread.
As states and territories ease restrictions, it is
important everyone continues to practise physical distancing.
0:30  Read transcript
Coronavirus is most likely to spread from person to person when we come into
close contact with one another.
We can all help stop the spread by keeping our distance.
This means do not shake hands, or exchange physical greetings, and wherever
possible, stay at least 1.5 metres away from others.
It's also really important to practise good hygiene, especially after being in
public places.
Together we can help stop the spread and stay healthy.
Visit health.gov.au to learn more.
Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra.


Physical distancing for coronavirus (COVID-19)
In public
Physical distancing in public means people:

keep 1.5 metres away from others wherever possible
avoid physical greetings such as handshaking, hugs and kisses
use tap and go instead of cash where possible
practise extra care if you are using public transport – read the guidelines (PDF, 165 KB).
avoid crowds – if you see a crowded space do not enter
avoid large public gatherings
practise good hygiene
stay at home if you have any cold or flu symptoms. Seek medical advice and get tested for COVID-19

See important information on restrictions on public gatherings.
See requirements in your state or territory.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
Identifying symptoms
Monitor the health of people in your care and watch out for symptoms of
COVID-19. Keep in mind:

older people may not always have a fever
older people may also have increased confusion, worsening chronic conditions of the lungs, or loss of appetite

Be especially alert when caring for people with dementia or a cognitive
impairment. They may not be able to tell you about potential symptoms or
express pain or discomfort.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
When you must not work
If you are an aged care worker, do not go to work if you have

returned from overseas in the past 14 days
travelled in the past 14 days as a cruise ship passenger or crew member
been in contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19
a fever
a symptom, even a minor symptom, of respiratory illness (cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, runny nose or nasal congestion)

Let your employer know you need to quarantine at home.
If you are a residential aged care worker, you should also only work if you
have had a flu shot. Exemptions apply in some states and territories.
To find out more, read the restrictions on entry into and visitors to aged
care facilities fact sheet.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
How to stop the spread
To help slow the spread of COVID-19, practise good hygiene and
physical distancing and follow the limits on public
gatherings.
For more on how you can protect yourself and those in your care, complete the
30-minute COVID-19 infection control training.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Wear appropriate PPE (gown, mask, protective eyewear and gloves) if you:

will be exposed to body fluids or very contaminated surfaces
are caring for someone confirmed or suspected of having COVID-19

Remove your PPE before leaving the room or the person’s home. Wash or sanitise
your hands straight after removing PPE.
For more about using PPE:

read the PPE for the health workforce during COVID-19 page
print out the when to use PPE in aged care flowchart
watch our wearing PPE in aged care video

Getting PPE
Aged care providers can request PPE by emailing agedcareCOVIDPPE [at]
health.gov.au
We assess requests and ask for more information if needed. If your request is
successful, state and territory governments will distribute the agreed PPE to
you.
We prioritise aged care providers with a confirmed case of COVID-19.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
Managing COVID-19 in home care
Government-funded aged care providers of in-home care must minimise infection-
related risks. This includes organisations that provide:

Home Care Packages
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) services
some grant-funded services under the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flexible Aged Care Program

To meet the Aged Care Quality
Standards, you must
implement standard and transmission‑based precautions to prevent and control
infection.
For advice on preparing equipment and staff, cleaning, working with your care
recipients and more, read our COVID-19 guide for home care
providers.
For advice on flu vaccinations, support for home care recipients, workers with
visa work restrictions and more, read our COVID-19 factsheet for in-home care
workers.
Older people and their families and carers can read our it’s ok to have home
care fact sheet.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
Getting tested
It’s important to detect COVID-19 in health and aged care workers as early as
possible.
You are eligible for COVID-19 testing if you are an aged care worker and
develop fever or respiratory symptoms.
Your doctor will confirm whether you need to be tested and will arrange for
the test.
Aged and residential care facilities are high-risk settings. Staff (and
residents) will also be tested if there are 2 or more people with fever and
respiratory symptoms in the setting.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
Managing COVID-19 in residential aged care
Residential aged care facilities are legally responsible for infection
prevention and control under the Aged Care Act 1997 and the Aged Care Quality
Standards.
You must:

manage visitor and entry restrictions, including for new and returning residents
monitor the health of your staff
prevent and control infections
put up signs and remind visitors of the steps they need to take to help protect residents, including their flu vaccination
ensure all visitors comply with the Aged Care Visitor Access Code
manage any COVID-19 outbreaks and follow the COVID-19 outbreak guidelines

For more advice, read our COVID-19 factsheet for residential aged care
workers.
Residents and their families and carers can read our COVID-19 advice for
people in aged care facilities.


Providing aged care services during COVID-19
Support for care recipients
Some older people may feel more alone during the pandemic. They may:

have less contact with friends and relatives
feel isolated from their culture and heritage
have less contact with the outside world because some shops and activities have temporarily closed

To support older people, let them know about:

the Community Visitors Scheme for residential aged care and home care recipients — regular visits or contact from volunteers can help older people feel less isolated
Head to Health — this website provides information about mental health and digital support

Online training
A 30-minute online module — COVID-19 infection control
training — is
available for care workers across all health care settings. It includes
training specific to aged care.
Other training modules include:

personal safety
families and visitors – residential care
families and visitors – in-home care
COVID-19 and aged care
outbreak management procedures
personal protective equipment
laundry
if you suspect a person has COVID-19

These modules take 5 to 10 minutes each. You will receive an acknowledgement
of completion certificate for each module.
This training is hosted on an external site, provided by our COVID-19 training
partner Aspen Medical.
Register now
Publications and fact sheets
See our COVID-19 resources for aged care
services.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) resources for health professionals, including aged
care providers, pathology providers and health care
managers
A collection of resources for health professionals, including aged care
providers, pathology providers and health care managers, about coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Visit the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission’s COVID-19
page for
more resources including an overview of their compliance approach during the
pandemic.
Webinars
View our:

webinars on the COVID-19 response for the health and aged care sector
webinars for the aged care sector


Providing health care face to face during COVID-19
Information for patients
For more information for patients on accessing health care and medicines, see:

getting medicines
accessing health services
electronic prescribing
consumer fact sheet on telehealth services at MBS Online
Home Medicines Service – information for consumers (for vulnerable people)

More resources for the general public are available at our coronavirus
(COVID-19) resources collection.


Providing health care face to face during COVID-19
When to provide care face to face
Health professionals can provide health care remotely through
telehealth. They can also
prescribe medicines remotely and have
them home delivered to patients by their pharmacist.
But health care professionals and care workers can still provide care face to
face. This includes:

general practitioners and other specialists
pharmacists
other primary care and allied health practitioners
clinicians and health care professionals working in acute, secondary and tertiary care
nurses and midwives
aged care workers and disability support workers
providers of mental health services, including psychologists, counsellors, mental health workers
paramedics and ambulance first responders

Where a patient or client receives care depends on their circumstances. In
some cases, providing care face to face is the only option.

Some people need to receive care in their own home — such as under the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or Home Care Packages Program.
People living in a residential aged care facility or disability service still need day-to-day care and regular access to health professionals.
Some health conditions require a physical examination.
Some people can’t or don’t want to use phone or video services.
Some services can only be delivered face to face.

When delivering care face to face, health professionals and care workers must
take steps to protect themselves and their patients from COVID-19. This
includes good hygiene practices and the use of
personal protective equipment (PPE).


Providing health care face to face during COVID-19
How to protect yourself and your patients
Health care workers and carers should take infection prevention and control
precautions when caring for patients face to face.
If you are a health care worker or aged care worker, you should complete a
30-minute online training module. This
will help you understand the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, and how to keep everyone safe.
To protect yourself and those in your care, especially those at risk of severe
disease:

practise and encourage good hand hygiene — wash hands before and after putting on PPE or contact with the patient
assess the patient’s risk of COVID-19 before face-to-face contact occurs, and then use PPE as appropriate for the risk and setting
provide your patient with a surgical mask to wear if he or she is in quarantine from being exposed to COVID-19, or has respiratory symptoms
follow physical distancing guidance, maintaining a distance of 1.5 metres from the patient where possible
regularly clean the environment and equipment

Immediately let your employer know if you:

think you came into contact with someone who has COVID-19 without using appropriate PPE
have symptoms of a respiratory illness, even if they are mild

In these circumstances, seek medical assessment and advice about COVID-19
testing. Stop providing care face to face until you have been cleared to
return to work. Read about when you can and can’t work.
Paramedics and ambulance first responders
Paramedics and ambulance first responders who are assessing and treating
patients in isolation or quarantine should:

take contact and droplet precautions for routine care of patients
take contact and airborne precautions when performing aerosol generating procedures, including intubation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
notify the receiving hospital
put vehicle ventilation in both compartments on non-recirculated mode during transport
use rear exhaust fan, if there is one, to draw air away from the cab, toward the back end of the vehicle
be aware of specific guidelines relating to your jurisdiction

Read more information for paramedics and ambulance first responders about
treating COVID-19 patients.
Life-threatening situations
When providing clinical care in life-threatening situations, such as CPR, to a
patient with suspected COVID-19, protect yourself by:

using appropriate PPE for the procedures, ensuring careful donning and doffing
performing good hand hygiene
immediately notifying your employer if you didn’t use appropriate PPE or you think a breach in PPE has occurred

Online training
A 30-minute online module — COVID-19 infection control
training — is
available for care workers across all health care settings.
This training is hosted on an external site, provided by our COVID-19 training
partner Aspen Medical.
Register now
Publications and fact sheets
See our resources for health professionals on providing health care during
COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) resources for health professionals, including aged
care providers, pathology providers and health care
managers
A collection of resources for health professionals, including aged care
providers, pathology providers and health care managers, about coronavirus
(COVID-19).
Webinars
Stay up to date with our webinars on the coronavirus (COVID-19) response for
the health and aged care sector.


Providing health care remotely during COVID-19
Home delivery for medicines
The Home Medicines
Service
is a temporary program paying a fee per delivery to Australian pharmacies for
home delivery to vulnerable people of:

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme medications
Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme medicines

Pharmacists can find out more about patient eligibility criteria and how to
take part at the Pharmacy Programs
Administrator site.
For patients who do not meet the program’s criteria for a vulnerable person,
pharmacies may charge a home delivery fee.
Pharmacies should advise patients at the time of receipt of the prescription
from the dispenser or the patient if they are not able to provide a home
delivery service.


Providing health care remotely during COVID-19
Telehealth services
The Australian Government has added a number of temporary Medicare
items to help health care practitioners deliver telehealth services via
phone or video conferencing.
Telehealth services will help protect health care professionals, their staff
and patients from unnecessary risk of infection.
These measures will be in place until 30 September 2020. The Government
will consider extending beyond 30 September 2020 if the Australian Health
Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) recommends it.


Providing health care remotely during COVID-19
Who can provide telehealth services
Telehealth bulk billing for GPs
From 6 April 2020, it is a legislative requirement that the new telehealth
service must be bulk billed by GPs and other medical practitioners (OMP –
practitioners not vocationally recognised as GPs, providing non-referred
services). This is only for:

Commonwealth concession card holders
children under 16 years old
people who are more vulnerable to COVID-19

A person who is more vulnerable to COVID-19 is someone who:

is required to isolate or quarantine according to Australian Health Protection Principal Committee guidance
is at least 70 years old
identifies as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and is at least 50 years old
is pregnant
is the parent of a child aged under 12 months
is being treated for a chronic health condition
is of any age and has suppressed immunity
meets the national triage protocol criteria for suspected COVID-19 infection

Health care providers may apply their usual billing practices to the
telehealth items for patients who do not fit the above criteria.