Tate Papworth
The spread of COVID-19 has slowed within Melton and Moorabool, but the state’s chief health officer is warning the community not to get complacent.
The number of confirmed cases in Melton sit at 18, while Moorabool remains at just one.
Of the total 1228 cases 225 have been detected in regional Victoria.
Several cases remain under investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services says there are 110 confirmed cases.
As the state grapples with the issue of community transmission chief health officer Brett Sutton implored the community to keep playing its part.
“It’s important that we have the right measures in place to slow the spread of this virus and protect the most vulnerable in our community,” Professor Sutton said.
“We know these restrictions will be hard for some people, but everyone needs to comply with the measures to the best of their abilities to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.”
“There is no doubt about it – physical distancing will save lives. I urge people not to look for loopholes, but to follow the advice and do the right thing.”
“Our message is clear: if you can stay home, you must stay home.”
Meanwhile measures to help keep the economy afloat during the shutdown are beginning to flow.
Fortnightly payments of $1500 will begin flowing to six million Australians from the first week of May as part of the $130billion JobKeeper scheme.
Locally, both the Melton and Moorabool councils have unveiled relief packages of their own.
The Melton council is set to launch an Open for Business campaign to promote businesses that are still trading during this crisis and is also offering free membership to the ‘Venture Melton Network’ where business can access free workshops and mentoring with advice and support.
Meanwhile Moorabool is taking a more targeted approach, encouraging affected businesses and residents to contact the council so it can put steps in place to support them.
