A partnership between the Victorian and federal governments will ensure additional support in the wake of Victoria’s coronavirus outbreaks in aged care centres.
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt today announced the Victorian Aged Care Response Centre would ensure the alarming rates of community transmission were adequately addressed.
“Aged care is a significant reflection of community transmission. Wherever that is high, there’s no immunity for our magnificent and courageous aged care workers,” Mr Hunt said.
“Focusing on supporting this is an absolute priority.”
It comes as Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced a further five deaths and 357 cases of coronavirus in the state in the past 24 hours.
Mr Andrews reported today there were 536 active cases in 38 aged care locations. Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton revealed a full list of where the cases were.
The response centre will focus on quality control, workforce provision, prevention of outbreaks, rapid response, supporting provider and communication to families.
Mr Hunt said: “This will be at the Victorian State Control Centre, and will be jointly managed by Emergency Management Australia, Emergency Management Victoria and VicHealth.
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“Participating members include the ADF, the Australian Government, the Victorian Government, the Aged Care quality and safety commissioners team, clinical leadership, geriatrician and emergency management support.
“That is an important step forward in helping to ensure rapid response where these cases are occurring.”
