Staying safe and supporting our community during COVID
Keeping Kingston safe and supported during the COVID-19 pandemic is a key priority for Council. Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos encouraged local residents to help their families, friends and neighbours to stay safe by following health orders, getting tested for COVID-19 and booking in for a vaccination.
With numerous cases just to the north of Kingston in St Kilda and Caulfield, and COVID detected in wastewater samples from Keysborough, Kingston needs to remain vigilant. "Everyone tested for COVID-19 helps authorities understand how the virus is spreading." Cr Staikos said. "Anyone who has visited an exposure site or is displaying any symptoms should get tested immediately for your own peace of mind and to ensure the community's safety."
Cr Staikos encouraged the community to persevere, despite the disappointment at facing lockdown again.
"I've been so encouraged to see strong community spirit over the past 18 months with neighbours caring for one another, people supporting their local traders and our community working together to contain this virus," Cr Staikos said.
Council is working hand-in-hand with businesses and residents to provide much-needed support during these difficult times. "We know parts of our community have been hit hard by COVID impacts and Council is keen to offer support. Last year Kingston provided a $12 million support package featuring rate concessions, deferrals, rebates and more. But we know more needs to be done," Cr Staikos said.
Ongoing support is available for our business community including:
- assistance package including rates deferrals, business registration refunds, footpath trading refunds, rent waivers and more
- $260,000 digital marketing strategy under development to promote our city and local businesses
- Free training and workshops from digital marketing essentials to management
- CovidSafe practices; support and planning
- Free, confidential mentoring with a consultant
- Kingston B-Well program to help improve staff health and reduce workplace injuries
- Kingston online business directory
Community members are also supported through:
- A freeze on charging interest on 2021/22 rates payments
- $113 rates discount to support pensioners in addition to the Victorian Government concession
- $50,000 in extra grants to our Local Emergency Relief Service providers, this helps families put food on the table and pay overdue utility bills
- $108,000 for mental health workshops and programming under development
- Ongoing services for older people and those living with a disability including personal care, delivered meals, home maintenance and welfare checks
- Community Support Hotline offering information and support during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Kingston Libraries Home Delivery Service and Click and Collect service keeps community engaged
- Online storytime sessions to entertain and educate young people
