"We know that Victoria's climate, population and environment is changing year on year, which meant it was crucial to ensure the new set of regulations reflect our commitment to strengthen and modernise our public health approach," said Victoria's Chief Health Officer Dr Brett Sutton.
To remain effective, regulations are reviewed and revised every 10 years to make sure they are effective, workable and necessary in today's environment.
"It's not always apparent, but these regulations play an important role in the everyday lives of Victorians. For example, when Victorians visit public aquatic facilities, tattooists or beauticians, the regulations set standards to minimise infection risks," said Dr Sutton.
Mandatory reporting of specified infectious diseases by doctors and pathology services allows us to respond to and prevent the ongoing spread of diseases such as measles. The regulations also help prevent and minimise the spread of certain infectious diseases in child care centres and primary schools.
The renewed regulations cover areas including:
- vector-borne infectious disease control
- registered premises such as businesses conducting beauty therapy, tattooing, skin penetration and colonic irrigation
- aquatic facilities
- cooling tower systems
- Legionella risks in certain premises
- pest control licensing
- managing and controlling infectious diseases, micro-organisms and medical conditions.
