The government today announced more than three million masks will be made available to the public through its state-run testing sites, community health services across Victoria including in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges, and across the public transport network.
Over the next four to six weeks, every person who presents who a free rapid antigen or PCR test will receive a box of 10 N95 masks with instructions on how best to wear them to reduce transmission of Covid-19 and other respiratory diseases, a government statement said.
The N95 and KN95 masks will also be distributed through some of Victoria’s community organisations, including at Aboriginal gatherings, through a number of disability service providers and at multicultural, multi-faith events.
The masks will also be available from public transport hubs and staffed train stations while authorised officers and some V/Line conductors will carry masks with them to hand out.
“Providing masks free of charge to those who need them most will help them protect themselves, their loved ones, and Victoria’s hardworking healthcare workers,” Victorian premier Daniel Andrews said.
The government said wearing a mask helps protect all Victorians from the virus and is strongly recommended at indoor settings, when people can’t physically distance, have Covid-19 symptoms, or are with vulnerable people. Masks are still mandatory in high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care and on public transport.
“Wearing a mask, staying up to date with your vaccinations and ensuring indoor areas are well ventilated are all steps Victorians and businesses can take to manage their own COVID-19 risk this winter and into the future,” Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said.
