Victoria mask rules: Where do I need to wear a mask? (November 2022)

Find out all the up-to-date rules and restrictions surrounding RAT kits and protective face masks in Victoria.
Edit product setWHERE TO BUY MASKS ONLINE
COVID may be out of mind for many, but new Omicron variants are expected to bring about a surge in cases.
The state government is maintaining certain rapid antigen test and mask rules and recommendations in Victoria.
If you need to buy these items, check out our guides to purchasing RAT kits and masks in Victoria.
Mask rules in Victoria
Wearing a mask in Victoria is recommended in the following settings:
- For at least 7 days if you have COVID-19 or are a close contact outside of your home
- If you are caring for someone at home who is sick with COVID-19
- If you have any COVID-19 symptoms
- If you are with people who may be vulnerable to COVID-19
- If you are visiting or working in a sensitive setting such as hospitals and aged care facilities
- If you know you are at a higher risk of falling very sick with COVID-19
Buy masks in Victoria
Different types of masks
There are 3 main types of face masks. Surgical masks are single-use and are often bought in bulk quantities. Alternatively, cloth masks can be washed and reused, and can be made DIY.
However, with the rise of the extremely transmissible Omicron variant, both of these styles of masks are considered highly suboptimal. Most experts now believe that N95, KN95 and P2 masks are far better options to protect yourself, your family and your community. All 3 mask styles are very similar. Most importantly, they all form a tight seal and filter out 94–95% of particles.
RAT rules in Victoria
If you test positive on a rapid antigen test, you should report your result to the Department of Health online or on 1800 675 398.
Buy RATs in Victoria
Edit top picksTouchbio 4 in 1 COVID-19 Self-testing Kit 2-pack
- Buy 1, get 1 Free
- Ships nationwide
- Fast Results in 15 Minutes & ARTG approved
Free shipping over $100
Fanttest COVID-19 / Influenza A&B Antigen Test Kit
- Accurate detection with high sensitivity and specificity
- Convenient self-testing
- Reliable and fast results in 15 minutes
Free shipping over $140
Offers Afterpay
Accepts Apple Pay
Accepts PayPal
Clungene Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test Nasal Swab 5-Pack
- TGA approved
- Very high sensitivity: sensitivity of 95.1%; specificity of 100%
- Convenient at-home self-testing kit
- Results in 15 – 20 mins
- Easy to use and easy to read results
How to use a RAT kit
Unsure as to how rapid antigen tests work or need a reminder? NSW Health has produced this helpful, generic video. Remember that instructions will vary from brand to brand.
Check out our guide to oral vs nasal RAT kits and our guide to mask rules throughout Australia.