- Face coverings to become mandatory across Melbourne and Mitchell Shire
- Drastic measure comes as Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed 363 new cases
- Said mask did not need to be hospital-grade and could be as simple as a scarf
- Teachers among jobs exempted when directive comes into effect on Thursday
Face masks will become mandatory across Melbourne and Mitchell Shire in a bid to stop the spread of COVID-19 across the city.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announced the drastic new measure on Sunday as the state recorded another 363 cases and three more deaths from the infectious respiratory disease.
Those who disobey the new government directive – effective from 11.59pm on Wednesday – will face a $200 fine.
He said the mask did not necessarily need to be hospital-grade, and could be a home-made face covering like a scarf.
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Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos has meanwhile announced the state’s state of emergency will be extended to August 16 as case numbers continue to rise.
Mr Andrews said there would be exceptions to the order in cases where it’s not practical or masks cannot be worn for professional reasons.
‘Those who have a medical reason, kids under 12 years of age, those who have a professional reason or if it’s just not practical, like when running [will be given an exemption],’ he said.
‘However you will still be expected to carry your face covering at all times to wear when you can.’
The premier also confirmed that any face covering – such as a scarf or another homemade approach – will do, and that masks do not need to be hospital grade.
“Whilst a mask or a face covering will be of benefit, it doesn’t mean that we can be shaking hands again. It doesn’t mean that we can be closer than 1.5m apart. It doesn’t mean hand hygiene is any less important,” Andrews said. “It doesn’t mean any of us can be any less vigilant when it comes to all those common sense things – washing your hands, cough etiquette, keeping your distance, and only going out for the things you need when you need them – and seeing those rules as a guide, not an invitation to go and do things that you really don’t need to do.”
Andrews said that the Victorian government has “the best part” of three million masks on order, and around 300,000 are expected to arrive this week. Details on distribution of those masks are still to come.
Victoria’s State of Emergency, due to expire on Sunday July 19, has now been extended until 11.59pm on August 16.