The total number of coronavirus cases in Victoria is 1085 (an increase of 49 from yesterday) and in NSW there are a total 2,389 confirmed cases (an increase of 91).
A man in his 80s has died in intensive care in Victoria, bringing the total number of deaths related to coronavirus in the state to seven. Ten people have died in NSW as of today.
More than 51,000 tests have been conducted to date in Victoria. In NSW more than 110,000 have been tested.
Authorities remind people there are only four reasons you should leave your home: food and supplies, medical care and care giving, exercise, and work or education.
All people arriving from any international destination must also self-isolate for 14 days as per Commonwealth Government direction. All travellers returning from overseas will be placed in enforced quarantine for the self-isolation period of 14 days.
Victoria Police have strong powers to enforce these directions and can issue on the spot fines, including up to $1652 for individuals, up to $9913 for businesses and. $19,800 through courtsBreaching the orders is punishable in NSW by fines for individuals of up to $11,000 or six months in prison or both.
Under the State of Emergency in Victoria people who don’t comply could also be taken to court and receive a fine of up to $20,000. Companies face fines of up to $100,000.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton said these are unprecedented times. The threat of coronavirus to public health is real and everyone must take social distancing seriously.
“Everyone who’s unwell must isolate themselves and everyone who’s been told they’re in quarantine either as a returned traveller or close contact must do so,” Professor Sutton said.
“Social distancing will save lives. Everyone needs to comply with restrictions in place to keep yourself, your loved ones and the whole community safe.
“Our message is clear: if you can stay home, you must stay home.”
The Victorian Department of Health and Human Services’ has a hotline for public information on COVID-19 which is 1800 675 398 or in NSW ring 1800 022 222
Further information is also available at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus or www.health.nsw.gov.au/coronavirus.
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