Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has declared a state of emergency for four weeks to try to stem the spread of coronavirus.
In Victoria, the state of emergency will start from midday on Monday and will initially run for four weeks, but is likely to continue after that, Premier Andrews said.
The declaration will allow authorised officers to detain people, restrict movement and prevent entry to premises to protect the public.
The powers allow the Chief Health officer to do whatever is necessary to contain the spread of the virus and reduce the risk to the health of Victorians.
Victorian health authorities have now confirmed 71 positive COVID-19 tests after 14 new cases were confirmed overnight.
People who don’t comply with a directive could be fined $20,000.
Talks under underway with Victoria Police about how the orders will be enforced, the Premier said.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“We are taking these steps, after agreement from the National Cabinet that includes the Prime Minister and all Premiers and Chief Ministers, to contain the spread of coronavirus as much as we can.”
“Make no mistake, the next few weeks and months will be tough for everyone, but we’re doing what is necessary to protect Victorians.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos
“This is the biggest public health challenge we’ve faced in our lifetimes – that’s why it’s so important that we have the right tools at our disposal to minimise the impact of this virus.”
“Expanding the powers of the Chief Health Officer will allow us to better protect public health and give our hospitals, GPs and other industries the best fighting chance we can.”