Face masks: Coverings to be mandatory in all of Victoria
Breaking news: Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced face coverings compulsory for all of Victoria.
In a press conference today Premier Daniel Andrews announced that from Sunday 2 August at 11:59pm, a face covering will be mandatory for all Victorians when they leave home – wherever they live.
In his statement Premier Andrews said, "I understand this will be a big step for some. But by covering your face, you're protecting your community, and protecting those extra freedoms your community enjoys.
"By covering your face, you're keeping local businesses open, and keeping local people in work."
Need a mask? Check out Finder's guide to options with fast delivery in Victoria.
The Victorian government also announced other changes to address the rise of cases in regional Victorian communities. From 11:59pm the local government areas of Colac-Otway, Greater Geelong, Surf Coast, Moorabool, Golden Plains and the Borough of Queenscliffe will no longer be able to visit people or have visitors at home.
On the issue of face masks, the Premier thanked the people of Victoria for doing the right thing: "... by covering your face, you're contributing to the safety of every single Victorian."
GP Dr Brad McKay says that as more guidance and legislation on the wearing of face masks and coverings is rolled out in Australia that buying, making and practicing wearing a face mask is something all Australians should consider as soon as possible.
"Early in the pandemic, we didn't have enough evidence to recommend mask-wearing for everyone in the general public, but now we do. It's only a matter of time before face coverings become a normal part of our daily routine.
There's no harm in wearing face coverings, but there's the potential benefit of decreasing coronavirus transmission by up to 80%."
Looking for the rules on face masks in your area of Australia? Check our complete guide here.
Want more help with masks? Check out our overview of face masks, how to choose the best one, what doctors recommend when using them, the rules that apply in Australia and our regularly-updated guide on where to buy masks.
