Face masks are available for vulnerable community members as part of the COVID-19 pandemic response.
Five disposable masks or 2 re-usable masks will be issued per person who meets the criteria. Supplies are limited and supply cannot be guaranteed. Choosing mask preference is not possible, unfortunately.
Eligibility
If you or members of your household identify with any of the eligibility categories, you may be eligible for free masks:
- People over the age of 12 years who are being actively managed for the following chronic conditions: Poor immunity, heart disease, diabetes and stroke, obesity, chronic lung disease, alcohol and drug dependency, frailty
- People living in public housing, in crisis accommodation, or who are homeless
- People living in rooming houses and supported residential services
- People living with a disability
- People with other needs including alcohol and drug issues, including those attending primary and secondary needle and syringe programs
- People experiencing mental health issues
- People experiencing family violence
- Young people in residential facilities, and those receiving other health and human services
- Young people with health and/or social issues that make them vulnerable
- Young people living in mandatory facilities
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- Refugee and asylum seekers (including temporary visa holders).
Fill out our form to apply for masks
Please note that the Victorian Government has banned the use of face shields, bandanas and scarves to be used as sole face coverings; reusable or disposable masks must be used by everyone who does not have an exemption. This is due to their poor ability to protect wearers and community members from possible transmission of the virus.
Reusable or single-use masks should always cover the mouth and nose entirely to be effective.
Face shields, bandanas and scarves can only be used in addition to masks but should not be used as a sole protective measure. Fines may apply.
