COVID-19 information
The latest information, resources and links will be posted here to assist in providing Life Saving Victoria (LSV) members and stakeholders with the most relevant and up-to-date information regarding COVID-19.
Information is changing quickly, we take advice from the Federal Government through the State Government’s Department of Health and Human Service (DHHS) and will use their information for the most up-to-date advice. For the most up-to-date information, including the latest government advice and updates, visit the DHHS website.
Below you will find information including:
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a new virus that can cause an infection in people, including a severe respiratory illness.
People of all ages have been diagnosed with COVID-19, but those known to be most at risk of severe illness are elderly people and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
The most common coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms reported are:
- Fever
- Respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath or breathing difficulties
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
Visit DHHS – About Coronavirus for more information about the virus.
Coronavirus hotline – 1800 675 398
If you suspect you may have the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) call the dedicated hotline – 1800 675 398 – open 24 hours, 7 days.
Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
Latest Alerts:
From 11.59pm on 22 November 2020, metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria moved to the last step restrictions.
- There is a roadmap that outlines the steps Victoria is taking to reopen.
- Last Step restrictions apply throughout metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
- Use of fitted face masks is mandatory indoors, unless and exemption applies, throughout Victoria. This includes settings such as public transport, including when waiting at stations, ride shares, hospitals, care facilities and shopping.
Staying Safe
- As restrictions ease it is more important than ever that we take steps every day to keep ourselves and others safe. The steps below can help protect you from coronavirus (COVID-19).
- Stay safe as restrictions ease by washing your hands regularly, coughing and sneezing into your elbow, and keeping at least 1.5 metres from others.
- Keep your friends and family safe by meeting outdoors. There is a lower risk of spreading coronavirus (COVID-19) between people if you are outdoors. From 11.59pm on 6 December, groups of up to 100 people will be able to meet outdoors.
- Face masks are no longer required outdoors, except where physical distancing cannot be maintained, but must be worn by all Victorians indoors unless an exemption applies.
- If you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19) get tested and stay home. Stay at home if you feel unwell.
We have developed a dedicated page where you can find all information on LSV’s COVID-19 recovery support for lifesaving clubs. Go to www.lsv.com.au/clubcovidrecovery
LSV training services have returned to normal operations. To book into an upcoming course or enquire about in-house training please visit www.lsv.com.au/training.
Please take care of yourself and others during this difficult time and stay connected, these are really trying times and sometimes we all need some additional support.
DHHS mental health resources
Helplines
If you would like to talk to someone now, you can contact:
Lifeline | 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
Beyond Blue | 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au
Kids Helpline | 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au
Head to Health | headtohealth.gov.au
Eheadspace 1800 650 893 | headspace.org.au/eheadspace/
Love me Love you | lovemeloveyou.org.au
National Coronavirus Helpline | 1800 020 080
You can also access a number of other National help lines and websites
Support groups and online forums; talking about what’s going on with others who understand – or may be going through something similar – can really make a difference.
Our friends at Black Dog Institute have a list of support groups in every state and territory that can help you connect with groups of people who meet regularly to discuss their experiences, their problems and their strategies for coping.
The Beyond Blue online forums are also a great way to connect with people online, in a safe and anonymous environment, to discuss anxiety, depression, suicide and a range of life issues. Anyone in Australia can participate in discussions, connect with others and share their experiences with our community.
About #InThisTogether
The National Mental Health Commission has come together with mental health organisations, experts and leaders to develop #InThisTogether – a national conversation that everyone can join in on, sharing practical tips online to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australians during #COVID-19.
Resources
The following section provides a selection of resources to assist you, your families, workplaces and clubs to stay connected, talk and support.
Phoenix Australia resources
From our friends at Phoenix Australia a number of useful resources, click through the link above for contact and additional information.
Resources for community members
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tip sheet: Taking care of yourself and your family
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tip sheet: Isolation activities for children and adolescents
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Video: Keeping yourself mentally well
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Video: 4 ways to look after yourself during self-isolation
Resources for organisations
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Video: Looking after the mental health of your workforce
Other helpful resources from our networks
Sport Australia – helpful tools, resources and videos from the team at AIS
RUOK? – tools and tips for staying connected
Tip Sheet Children and COVID-19 – Ambulance Victoria developed resource to assist with talking to children and young children
Mental Health Considerations during COVID-19 Outbreak – information from the World Health Organisation on key mental health considerations
LSV Trauma Support resources
LSV Critical Incident information provides information on reactions, tips and information on Trauma response to stressful situations. Members can contact LSV Comms for further support.
Critical Incident Management Brochure
Stay active
Physical activity is a proven way to reduce the effects of stress. Look for online content that could help you exercise, do yoga or learn a new healthy pastime. Dust off your home exercise equipment, and use the downtime to improve your fitness!
VicHealth has reviewed the best smartphone applications for healthy living.
LSV Partner Support
Westpac has supported their customers and community through the good and tough times for more than 200 years and they continue to be there for you as the COVID-19 situation evolves.
Visit the Westpac COVID-19: Customer Support page to find out more
Resources
World Health Organisation (WHO) COVID-19 myth buster information
DHHS Heath Provider Quick Reference Guide
DHHS COVID-19 self-assessment checklist
Posters
Slowing the spread of coronavirus (PDF)
Wash your hands regularly poster
Wash your hands regularly poster – Simplified Chinese (PDF)
Wash your hands regularly poster – Arabic (PDF)
Cover your cough and sneeze poster
Cover your cough and sneeze poster – Simplified Chinese (PDF)
Cover your cough and sneeze poster – Arabic (PDF)
Swimming and Water Safety Online Resources
Learning activities that can be completed in the classroom or at home
Fun family activities for school holidays and weekends at home
LSV Podcast