Mandatory face masks or face coverings

The Victorian Government has made wearing a face mask or face covering mandatory from 11:59pm on Wednesday, 22 July. This rule applies to anyone living in metropolitan Melbourne or Mitchell Shire when they leave home for any of the four permissible reasons:

1. Going to work or school
2. Care or care giving
3. Daily exercise
4. Buying food and other essential items.

People who do not comply may receive a $200 fine.

If you live in other parts of Victoria it is recommended you wear a face covering when you leave home if it is difficult to maintain a physical distance of 1.5 metres from others.

All CareChoice support staff will be wearing face masks when delivering services to our clients in all regions as part of our safe COVID-19 service delivery.

Are there disability exemptions?

There are disability-related exemptions and you do not have to wear a face covering or mask if you meet one of the following criteria:

• People who have a medical condition, including problems with their breathing.
• People with a disability must wear a face covering unless it is impractical or unsafe for medical, communication or other risk reasons.
• People who need to communicate clearly as part of their job e.g. someone who communicates with a person who is hearing impaired and reads lips to understand essential communication.
• Group home residents in their home – but staff and visitors must wear face masks.
• Children under the age of 12 do not have to wear a face covering or mask but are encouraged to if they can.
• You do not have to wear a face covering when you do strenuous exercise, but you need to have one with you. If your exercise is walking, you should wear a face covering.

More details are available on the DHHS website here.