As you will be aware the spread of Corona Virus or COVID-19 in Australia has been increasing. This is a very challenging situation – something unprecedented and highly unpredictable on a global scale and rapidly changing from hour to hour.
At this time it is business as usual. We are continuing to maintain our Council services and we are also working to prepare for any escalation in the crisis.
The World Health Organisation has declared the spread of the virus a pandemic. The State Government has released its Pandemic Plan, but a pandemic has not yet been declared for Victoria.
If a pandemic is declared, the State Government will move through various control measures aimed at containing the virus.
Monash Council has established an Incident Control Group and has a Business Continuity Plan which is enacted when needed in crisis management incidents.
The purpose of these is to put in place resources and strategies to enable critical business to continue as much as possible in what is a rapidly changing environment.
Our much valued events are one area we need to consider. Our International Women's Day event on Thursday 19 March, planned to be held at Avila College, will no longer go ahead at that venue following a decision from the school but we will be livestreaming the event through our website at www.monash.vic.gov.au
We are monitoring the situation in regards to other upcoming events including Live at Warrawee on 21 March particularly given today's advice by the Chief Health Officer that gatherings of more than 500 should be cancelled.
We are talking to the users of our facilities to see what they want to do in relation to their bookings for their events and gatherings and talking to our local sporting groups about their training sessions and events.
Our Council meetings are continuing as planned. They are livestreamed so if there is anyone who does not want to attend in person they can view via our website at webcast.monash.vic.gov.au
We will continue to keep you informed as the situation evolves.
You can find information and useful advice on the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) website including 10 ways to reduce your risk of coronavirus, what is coronavirus and symptoms of coronavirus.
If you suspect you may have the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) call the dedicated hotline on 1800 675 398. Keep 000 calls for emergencies only.
