Face masks or coverings now compulsory for all people living in metropolitan Melbourne or Mitchell Shire

Following the recent State Government announcement it is now mandatory to wear a face mask or covering when leaving your home. The use of face coverings is being enforced in order to reduce community transmission of coronavirus (COVID 19). A fine of $200 may be issued to people who do not wear a face covering and do not have a valid reason for exception. More information about face coverings is provided below and via the DHHS website.

Who does this new rule apply to?

• Everyone over the age of 12 who lives in metropolitan Melbourne or the Mitchell Shire must wear a face covering if you need to leave home for one of the four reasons
• When there's more than one person in a car at a time who do not live in the same household
• Only a limited group of people are exempt from wearing masks including childcare, childcare workers and those who have a medical reason not to wear a mask

Where do I get a face mask or covering?

There are two main types of masks available - disposable and cloth masks. You can purchase these:

• Online
• Stores such as your local chemist, Officeworks or Bunnings
• Or even have a go at making your own mask

Please keep in mind that cloth masks need to have three layers of materials to comply with the DHHS guidelines. Here’s a list of ethical mask manufactures.

If you cannot purchase or make a face mask an alternative form of covering including a scarf or bandana may be used.

How do I properly wear face mask or covering?

• Face coverings must cover both your nose and mouth
• Wash your hands before use
• While wearing a mask or covering, avoid touching your eyes, face or the covering itself
• Disposable masks can be worn for four hours at a time, must be changed if they become damp and disposed of once you take it off

Cloth masks are reusable, however need to be washed at 60 degrees or higher to kill germs and bacteria.

It’s advisable to have two well-fitting masks so that you always have a clean mask available.

Together we can help stop the spread of coronavirus (COVID 19) by wearing a face mask or covering, getting tested even if your symptoms are mild and working from home unless it is not possible to do so.

For more information about support and services available during this time, please visit our Coronavirus information hub.