Protecting yourself and others
There are important steps you should take to help reduce the spread of Coronavirus (COVID‑19) and protect yourself and those who are most at risk.
To help slow the spread of COVID-19, practise good hygiene and physical distancing and follow the rules for public gatherings, quarantine and isolation.
If you are sick and think, you might have COVID-19; check your symptoms using Healthdirect Coronavirus (COVID-19) Symptom Checker.
For more information see How to protect yourself and others from coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Australian Government Department of Health's (Department of Health) website.
The Department of Health has also prepared specific advice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and remote communities. If you have any symptoms, however mild, please get tested.
Refer to your local state government for the latest responses to the coronavirus pandemic.
You can also check restrictions in all states and territories using the COVID-19 Restriction Checker.
Health services
The Australian Government is boosting a range of health services in response to COVID-19.
The Department of Health is your starting point for advice on the health support available during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This includes up to date information on how you can:
- get your medicines
- access health services
- look after your mental health
- stay healthy.
Use this interactive map to find an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Health Service near you.
If you need to get tested for COVID-19, the options available will depend on where you live. Use this map to find the testing clinic closest to you.
COVID-19 vaccination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
COVID-19 vaccination is available to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 16 and over. Check with your local healthcare worker to make an appointment.
The Department of Health website has information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders about COVID-19 vaccines and the vaccination program. Messaging will be translated into 15 language groups including Arrente, Pitjantjatjara, Yumpla Tok, Kalaw Lagaw Ya, Meriam Mer, Ngaanyatjarra, Kimberley Kriol, Northern Kriol, Anindilyakwa, Burrara, Kunwinkju, Yolngumatha, Murrinh Patha, Tiwi and Warlpiri.
Mental health
It is especially important to take care of your mental health and wellbeing during coronavirus.
- Head to Health provides information and guidance during this time, with information on how to support children and loved ones, and how to access further mental health services and care.
- Beyond Blue has a dedicated coronavirus wellbeing support line (1800 512 348) to help people manage their wellbeing and mental health during this time.
- Headspace also offers dedicated mental health support for young people.
Domestic violence
Domestic violence in our community is unacceptable. Everyone has the right to be free from harm and to live without fear of violence or abuse.
For urgent medical or police help freecall Triple Zero (000).
If you are self-isolating or required to isolate, but are in immediate danger, you can leave your house. Contact a domestic violence support service for advice about continuing to isolate in a safe place.
1800RESPECT
1800RESPECT is the national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling service for anyone in Australia who has experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence or sexual assault. 24 hours, 7 days a week.
MensLine Australia
MensLine Australia is a telephone and online counselling service for men with emotional health and relationship concerns, including issues of violence.
Financial Distress
Many people are experiencing financial stress caused by the impacts of COVID-19.
The following resources provide information on support services that may be useful at this time.
Services Australia can help with income support and support for households.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) is providing the option for accessing superannuation early and also minimum drawdown rate options for retirees. Assistance is also available for eligible businesses, including boosting cash flow and JobKeeper payments. Visit the ATO's COVID-19 page for more information.
The National Debt Helpline offers free, confidential and independent advice from professional financial counsellors. The Helpline can be reached on 1800 007 007 from 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Students
Visit the Services Australia News for Students and Trainees page for up to date information affecting students.
For information on how the School Term Allowance and living away from home rate will be calculated, and how you can access the ABSTUDY Fares Allowance if you need to travel home before the end of the school term visit the Services Australia ABSTUDY page.