The Victorian Government has announced changes to pandemic orders and public health recommendations effective as of 11:59pm Tuesday 12 July 2022 to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.  

The new Omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5 are a dominant strain of COVID-19 and there is an increased spread of infection. 

Whilst we continue to go about our business, we need to make sensible choices and take preventative measures to stay safe. 

The Government health advice continues to encourage: 

  • Getting third and fourth doses to keep everyone safe, including a flu shot 
  • Wearing a face mask indoors and in crowded settings  
  • Social distancing  
  • Maintain good ventilation indoors 

The period when someone is considered a recently confirmed case (and therefore exempt from testing and isolation/quarantine requirements) has been reduced from 12 weeks to 4 weeks. 

Remember, positive cases are still required to isolate for seven days from the day they took their test. The changes will allow a positive case to provide transport for a household member to obtain food where it is essential but must remain in the car and wear a face covering at all times. 

Employers and workers must continue to work together on ways to remain Covid Safe.  

If you are feeling unwell or have Covid symptoms stay home and get tested. 

The building and construction industry has a good track record of managing their work sites with Covid Safe practices and employers should continue to evaluate what is appropriate for their employees and the workplace. Employees working from home may be the most appropriate arrangement. 

Employers must consult with employees and any HSR’s when making decisions on how to identify and control risks. This includes decisions to introduce vaccination requirements to keep workplaces Covid Safe.  

Another round of the Governments Small Business Ventilation Grant Program will be offered to help businesses keep their workers and customers safe in indoor settings. 

Master Builders supports the building and construction industry to continue to do what they have done well over the last two years through the pandemic. 

We have some best practice guidance on our website that can be accessed here to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

 

Click here to view additional COVID-19 information and resources. 

Click here to view the full Government media release.