17 February 2021

The Victorian Premier has announced this morning that the five day lockdown will end as planned from midnight tonight, Wednesday 17 February.

Victoria will largely return to the settings and restrictions that were in place last week before the lockdown, which means, among other things:

• Workplaces are open, with a 50% cap on attendance in offices, and density quotients in place
• Face masks are required indoors, and outdoors where a distance of 1.5 metres from other people can’t be maintained
• Schools are open

There are additional restrictions in place on social interactions such as the number of people you can have in your home. Further details can be found here: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/statement-premier-86.

In particular, the Premier made mention in his statement that residential homes will have some restricted visiting arrangements, being only one household may visit a resident once per day. The Victorian Government has not defined what a ‘household’ is. Benetas has taken the position that we will accommodate 2 visitors per resident per day.

As usual, exceptions continue to apply and symptomatic individuals (e.g. sore throat etc.), close contacts of COVID-19 affected individuals and returned international travelers remain excluded from visiting.

These arrangements will commence from Thursday 18^th February and the Premier has stated the current restrictions will last until at least next Friday 26^th February.

As soon as we are made aware of any updates or changes we will let you know. In the meantime, please speak to your Residential Manager if you would like to request for an exception, or have any other concerns. Otherwise do not hesitate to email Covid19enquiries@benetas.com.au.

Thank you for your understanding.

Benetas greatly welcomes the Australian Government’s rollout of the COVID-19 Vaccination Program for all aged care residents, employees and volunteers as a matter of priority. You can read more about the roll out of the vaccine across our homes and services.

A number of advocates for older Australians have launched a dedicated free call service to support the mental health of older Australians affected by the spread of COVID-19. The phone line will be staffed by advisers who can offer practical help and advice and is a partnership between OPAN, COTA and National Seniors Australia.

Call 1800 171 866

The support line will operate Monday to Friday 8.30am to 6pm (except public holidays).