Coronavirus (COVID-19) information
Australia and the world are facing a health crisis unprecedented in recent decades.
From 18 October, in metropolitan Melbourne
- you are not allowed to travel more than 25km of your home for shopping or exercise
- you can travel further than 25km from your home for permitted work, medical care and caregiving
- groups of up to ten people from two households can gather in outdoor public places
- outdoor sports settings like tennis courts, golf courses and skateparks can open
- hairdressers can open, with strict safety protocols in place
- all allied health professionals currently operating can resume routine face-to-face care
- restaurants and cafes can open for takeaway and delivery only.
The COVID-19 pandemic is also an economic emergency, and all of us are being affected in different ways. Sources of financial assistance and support are listed below.
Coronavirus is still with us
Please get tested if you have any symptoms of coronavirus, such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, shortness of breath or loss of taste or smell. Getting tested is safe and free for everyone.
Support is available if you are worried about losing wages.
Stay at home
The best way to stay safe is to stay at home when you can. Only go to work if you are in a permitted industry.
Wear a face mask
Everyone has to wear a face mask whenever they leave home (unless a lawful exception applies).
Cover your coughs
When you cough or sneeze, cover your nose and mouth. Or cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or bent elbow.
Wash your hands
Wash your hands often with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds. Or hand sanitiser (over 60 per cent alcohol).
Don't touch your face
Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth – or your face covering if you’re wearing one.
Keep your distance
Stay 1.5 metres away from people you don't live with. Don’t shake hands, hug or kiss as a greeting.
Assistance and support
Australian Government financial assistance for individuals and households
Australian Government assistance for businesses
Victorian Government assistance for businesses 13 2215
Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment 1800 2266
Coronavirus Test Isolation Payment 1800 675 398
Working for Victoria opportunities for employees impacted by the pandemic
Residential tenants and landlords
Advice for renters 1800 068 860
Department of Social Services coronavirus support
Find local emergency relief organisations
Emergency food relief packages for people in mandatory self-isolation 1800 675 398
Assistance for City of Casey residents and businesses (03) 9705 5200
Assistance for Greater Dandenong residents and businesses (03) 8571 1000
Information and advice
If you suspect you may have coronavirus (COVID-19), contact your GP, or call the hotline 1800 675 398
Getting tested for coronavirus (COVID-19)
Victorian Department of Health
Australian Department of Health World Health Organization Victorian Department of Health translated information SBS - Information in 63 languages Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080(For translating or interpreting 131 450) Older Persons Advocacy Network 1800 237 981
Report a breach of COVID-19 restrictions
Business and industry information
Schools information 1800 338 663
Mental health and wellbeing
Coronavirus Mental Wellbeing Support Service 1800 512 348
Mental health and COVID-19Partners in Wellbeing (free counselling) 1300 375 330
Embrace Multicultural Mental Health
Lifeline 13 11 14
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
Suicide Line 1300 651 251
Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
headspace (youth) 1800 367 968
ReachOut (for young people and parents)
MensLine Australia 1300 789 978
safe steps (family violence) 1800 015 188
SANE Australia 1800 187 263
Switchboard (LGBTIQA+) 1800 184 527
FriendLine 1800 424 287
Victoria Together online activities and experiences
more health resources