Every positive coronavirus case can expect a knock on the door from the public health team working alongside the Australian Defence Force (ADF), as Victorians continue to work together to fight coronavirus.

The ADF has been supporting the DHHS Case and Contact Management program by doorknocking with authorised officers (AOs) from the department, following up positive cases who cannot be contacted by phone or who are refusing to cooperate.

In the past week, 18 teams have made over 500 visits and have been incredibly effective in making sure positive cases or close contacts understand the what they are required to do to safely isolate.

These efforts will be ramped up from tomorrow, with the teams now checking in on every Victorian who has tested positive for coronavirus. The visit will ensure Victorians with coronavirus have the support they need and understand the important obligations of isolation – and will complement the vital early work done by contact tracers over the phone.

We know that the majority of our cases are being transmitted in workplaces and it’s vital that businesses and employees work together to stop the spread of the virus. Rapid notification about positive cases in workplaces is critical.

From today, employers are required to notify WorkSafe immediately if they become aware that a worker has received a confirmed coronavirus diagnosis. This also applies to people who are self-employed and also to contractors who may have attended the workplace during their infectious period.

The new Regulations, made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, will assist WorkSafe to reduce the risks to health and safety in the workplace arising from coronavirus and will be in force for 12 months.

For more information about coronavirus call 1800 675 398 or visit www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.

Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews

“Over the past week we have seen that having the ADF and DHHS going door to door has helped – so we’re expanding those efforts to ensure every Victorian who tests positive has our support.”

“Everyone has the right to be safe at work and that includes doing everything possible to manage the risks of coronavirus in workplaces.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos

“I thank everyone involved in the collaborative effort to fight this virus. Victorians have an opportunity to also thank them by following the rules, which will keep you and your loved ones safe.”