Extra government support for lockdown

IN response to the statewide COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, Western Victoria upper house MP and Minister for Employment Jaala Pulford has reiterated there’s funding available for impacted workers and small businesses.

Casual and irregular workers around the state have voiced difficulty in taking time off work to isolate while waiting for test results.

To ease the burden, Ms Pulford said the State government, backed by Federal funding, has money available so people don’t have to move around the community while sick or awaiting results.

“We have initiated a $300 payment for that period where people are waiting for a result and a $1500 payment for people who may have tested positive,” she said.

“Not a single person should be in a situation where they have to make the decision between having to put food on the table for their family and following the rules.

“This is about removing financial pressure from people who may not have sick leave or other entitlements.”

While Ballarat re-adjusts to stage three lockdown, the State government continues to urge all Victorians to abide by current guidelines and maintain proper hygiene practices.

Ms Pulford said the government’s simple and clear rule is that ever if you have the slightest of symptoms, get tested.

“There are testing sites near you no matter where you live or the ability to access a test,” she said.

“The turnaround time on results is very quick but the occasional occurrence where I might stretch out by a day the rule is clear, if you have symptoms stay at home.

“If you have had your test and you are waiting for results or if your results are positive, you must of course self-isolate.”

While majority of businesses are forced to shut down in metropolitan areas, many in Ballarat will be able to continue trade, although there are statewide limits of meat processing.

Due to the high-risk settings and out breaks, Ms Pulford said abattoirs all around the state will face restrictions.

“Abattoirs are in stage four lockdown across the state and have to reduce by one third of their production,” she said.

“However, we don’t expect that it will impact the supermarkets, as long as people don’t run around madly buying six weeks-worth of food.”

To protect other industries from such restrictions as well as everyone’s health, authorities will be handing out fines and penalties to those who disregard the guidelines.

Although the restrictions aren’t desirable, Ms Pulford said it’s important that we don’t let our guard down.

“My message to Ballarat is thank you for your willingness to do what we all need to do to get on top of the virus and stop it from spreading further,” she said.

“Sadly, there’s a small minority in the community who aren’t taking this seriously and pose a risk to themselves, their loved ones and the rest of the community.

“If you break these rules, you will be caught and penalised.”

For more information and advice on the stage 3 lockdown restrictions visit dhhs.vic.gov.au and click the section for regional Victoria.

If you run a business, visit business.vic.gov.au for more information about upcoming grants and financial support.