COVID-19 - English
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Access this website regularly to stay informed about key developments in the Australian Government’s response to COVID-19.
SBS also has a range of information on COVID-19 in your language. You can also use mobile phone apps and browser extensions to translate government information. Search for one that meets your needs.
To access additional information in English, visit www.australia.gov.au.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) — Information for the Australian community
Save lives and help slow the spread of coronavirus in Australia
Stay home
Don’t leave home unless you have to.
You should avoid leaving your house for any non-essential activity.
Don’t invite family or friends into your home.
Stay at home unless you are:
going to work or education (if you are unable to do so at home)
shopping for essential supplies such as groceries (return home without delay)
going out for personal exercise in the neighbourhood, on your own or with one other person
attending medical appointments or compassionate visits.
Medical services, supermarkets, banks, petrol stations, postal and home delivery services remain open.
Stay safe
Always practise good hygiene, wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water, cover your coughs, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Maintain social distance of at least 1.5 metres when outside your home.
Avoid physical greetings such as handshaking, hugs and kisses.
Use tap and go instead of cash.
Travel at quiet times and avoid crowds.
Be well informed – only use trusted official information. Download the Coronavirus Australia mobile phone app, subscribe to the Coronavirus Australia WhatsApp service, and visit www.australia.gov.au for the latest information.
Stay connected
Check in on family and friends by phone or online.
Deliver groceries and essential goods to older relatives and vulnerable people. Leave them at the door.
Key volunteer organisations and charities can provide services to people who need them most.
Health information
Symptoms of coronavirus include:
fever
coughing
sore throat
fatigue
shortness of breath
If you are sick and think you might have coronavirus, seek medical help. You can call the National Coronavirus Helpline for information. If you require translating or interpreting services, call 131 450. If you have serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, call 000 for urgent medical help. The Department of Health’s website has a range of information available in languages other than English to help people stay safe and minimise risks to the community. Financial support for individuals and households The Australian Government is providing financial assistance to Australians to support them through the coronavirus pandemic. This assistance includes income support payments, payments to support households and temporary early releases of superannuation. For more information, visit www.servicesaustralia.gov.au. Financial support for businesses The Australian Government is supporting Australian businesses to manage cash flow challenges and retain employees. Assistance includes cash flow support to businesses and temporary measures to provide relief for financially distressed businesses. JobKeeper payment If your business has been significantly impacted by the coronavirus you will be able to access a wages subsidy to continue paying your employees. Under the JobKeeper program, you will be able to claim a fortnightly payment of $1,500 per eligible employee from 30 March 2020, for a maximum of six months. This assistance will help you keep staff and help you restart when the pandemic is over. For more information on financial support, eligibility and timing, visit www.business.gov.au No evictions Evictions will be put on hold for six months by state and territory governments. Landlords and renters are encouraged to talk about short term agreements. Travel restrictions A travel ban is in place that prevents all non-Australian citizens and non-residents from entering Australia. People exempt from the travel ban include immediate family members of Australian citizens and permanent residents including spouses, minor dependents, legal guardians and de facto partners. After arriving in Australia, all travellers are required to complete 14 days quarantine. Information for temporary visa holders Visa holders who wish to remain in Australia beyond the expiry date of their current visa need to apply for a further visa. Visa holders should explore their visa options to find a new visa that suits their circumstances and check whether they can apply for it. For more information about travel restrictions and visas, visit https://covid19.homeaffairs.gov.au