The Victorian Rural Women’s Network is committed to helping you stay informed and up to date with the latest information and resources on coronavirus (COVID-19). Here is a list of important information you should know about.
The State of Emergency declared by the Premier last month has been extended until midnight 11 May 2020 to continue the measures designed to slow the spread of coronavirus. Stage 3 restrictions of non-essential activity are still in place and the advice is clear: Stay home. Protect our health system. Save lives.
There are only four reasons to be out:
- food and supplies that you need
- medical care and caregiving
- exercise in compliance with the public gathering requirements
- work and education – if necessary
Health care and emergency information
If you are unwell, stay at home. Phone the 24-hour coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398 for advice and if you have serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call 000, ask for an ambulance and tell them if you have recently returned from overseas.
Support for the agriculture industry
The Victorian Government understands the critical importance of the agriculture and food sector during the coronavirus pandemic and will ensure our farms and agribusinesses keep operating – to keep the supermarket shelves stocked and food on Victorians’ tables.
Farmers and producers are vital to all Victorian communities and have an important role to play during this time.
Agriculture Victoria is working hard to support farmers and the Victorian community through this difficult time. Staff are working hard to deliver and, where needed, redesign services to ensure the safety of farmers and the people who live and work in rural and regional communities.
For information specific to the agriculture sector, including information about the support available to businesses and workers in the agricultural and food production industries, please see the Agriculture Victoria and Business Victoria websites.
Government support
The Federal and State Governments continue to announce economic and jobs packages to support individuals and businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. For a summary of government assistance to businesses, including agricultural businesses and exporters, see Global Victoria. You can see more at the Federal Government website and Victorian Premier’s Media Centre.
The $500 million Working for Victoria initiative matches businesses with Victorians who have lost jobs due to coronavirus. Find out more at vic.gov.au/workingforvictoria.
A dedicated Business Victoria coronavirus hotline is available on 13 22 15. Know your workplace obligations and entitlements by visiting the Fair Work Ombudsman page.
Click the following links for information and resources on bushfire and drought relief.
Wellbeing support
During this time, it’s understandable if you are feeling anxious or unsettled. It’s important to remember that although we may be physically separate we are not alone. Try to focus on staying connected. Here are some resources to assist with your health and wellbeing:
National Centre for Farmer Health
Lifeline or phone 13 11 14
Domestic violence resources and information
For tips on how to stay mentally healthy, see the Beyond Blue website where you can also join supportive chat forums. Connect with other rural women on the Victorian Rural Women’s Network Facebook and Twitter pages or email us at [email protected].
General information
For all the latest information on coronavirus, including information about health, updates from the Chief Health Officer, resources and advice for the public, health professionals, education services and businesses, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au. There is a section with information for Aboriginal Victorians. For translated resources, see here.
Keep informed of emergencies affecting the health sector and critical public health issues impacting your work. Download the Australian Government’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) mobile phone app from the Apple App Store or Google Play and head to the WhatsApp communications service.
Subscribe now to receive information including Chief Health Officer updates and emergency advice from the Department of Health and Human Services. You can also follow the Chief Health Officer on Twitter.
