25 June 2020

2020-06-26T09:13:51+10:00
Metro North Health Incident Controller

Dear colleagues,

Today, I’d like to provide some extra clarity about travel restrictions to COVID-19 hotspot locations for Metro North staff. Earlier this week, I mentioned that Queensland’s list of declared COVID-19 hotspots has increased to include all 31 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in ‘Greater Melbourne’, as well as bordering LGAs. This decision by the Chief Health Officer comes after the recent increase in COVID-19 cases across several parts of Victoria.

As these locations are now considered high-risk, we strongly urge all staff to reconsider travelling to these areas for personal reasons unless considered necessary. Where staff leave Queensland for personal reasons and visit a COVID -19 hotspot, the 14-day self-quarantine requirements upon return will need to be taken utilising personal leave.

In line with the Chief Health Officer’s decision, travel to any hotspot locations for work purposes will not be permitted, unless for extenuating clinical reasons which are approved by the facility Executive Director. Where staff are approved to travel for work purposes, they are considered exempt from the 14-day self-quarantine period under the current Public Health Direction.

If Line Managers are aware of any staff currently in Victoria for personal reasons and planning to return to Queensland, please contact your staff member as soon as possible and ensure they are aware of the requirement to self-quarantine.

In other news, a very happy First Responders Day to our amazing front line staff! This year, a number of Australian retailers are giving a special thanks to our First Responders by offering a range of discounts in store (for today only). You’ll find more information about the participating retailers and discounts available on our Staff Wellbeing page.

As always, thank you for your cooperation and commitment to helping keep our community safe. I hope some of you are able to snap up a few bargains today from your favourite retailers. Although it causes my husband significant angst, shopping is certainly one of my personal favourite hobbies, so I do have a plan to shop today if I find the time. We have a great deal in our house: Ian keeps the credit card empty and I top it up. Well, that’s certainly my interpretation of the agreement.

Remember to stay well, look after each other, have fun and enjoy the rest of your week!

Kind regards,

Adjunct Professor Alanna Geary
Metro North Incident Commander

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