What you need to know

• Victorian Government announced mandatory use of the free Government QR Code 
• There are updated fact sheets for all disability service providers.
• Care facilities directions include updated rules about face masks and screening requirements
• Community and disability services (except SE and IHS) directions include QR code compliance.

Victorian QR Code system

On 23 April, QR codes became mandatory in Victoria for a range of businesses and workplaces, including centre-based services. At the time it was optional to use the free Victorian Government QR code service or an existing check-in platform.

With multiple formats creating confusion and reduced compliance, the Victorian Government has announced there will now be just one check-in system from 28 May. In an effort to maintain timely contact tracing and increase compliance in the community, all businesses required to keep electronic records must move to the free Victorian Government QR Code Service.  

Updates to Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Fact sheets

DFFH has released updated factsheets that replace previously issued guidance - CHO Workplace Directions continue to apply alongside DFFH information.

The Community Services covered by Care Facilities Directions fact sheet applies to all residential settings, and the Community and Disability Services Directions fact sheet applies to all non-residential settings (including Supported Employment and In Home Support) unless specified.

Community Services covered by Care Facilities Directions

Face masks

All workers must wear a surgical face mask indoors when face-to-face contact with residents or visitors will occur, and in areas accessible to residents and visitors.

Face masks should still be worn outdoors where physical distancing is not possible.

Face masks may be removed temporarily if it is essential for communication.

Screening

Care facilities must ensure workers and visitors are recording their contact details upon entry.

Workers, contractors, volunteers and visitors must be checked for COVID-19 symptoms; this can include conducting a temperature check. A written declaration that the worker/visitor is symptom-free must be provided at the start of each shift or before entering the facility.

People must not enter a facility if they:

• have any COVID-19 symptoms, including a fever (identified through a temperature check)
• are a close contact of someone who has COVID-19
• are currently required to isolate or quarantine (including having been at an exposure site or waiting on a test result).

People who have worked in a quarantine hotel or port of entry in the last 14 days or have been released from hotel quarantine in the last 14 days are advised not to enter, although they are not prohibited from entering.

Community and Disability Services

QR Code compliance

Centre-based services are expected to comply with QR code requirements, including helping clients who do not have or cannot use a smartphone. Where this is not practical, another method for recording attendance that can be referenced in case of an outbreak must be used.

Providers should note:

• Supported employment services are not required to use QR codes.
• In-home support workers do not need to apply the density limit or QR code check-in.

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