As part of winter COVID management, NDS asks all Victorian providers to communicate the following updates with disability workers, people with disabilities, and their families or authorised support people.

Providers are also asked to continue encouraging all people to wear masks indoors, when social distancing cannot be maintained, and to access influenza and COVID booster dose vaccinations.

Extension of free rapid antigen tests for people with disability

The availability of free rapid antigen tests for people with disability has been extended to 30 September 2022. Eligible people with disability in Victoria can access 20 free RATs per visit from state-run testing sites and from Disability Liaison Officers.

Carers can also access the tests on behalf of eligible people with disability.

Eligible people include NDIS participants, disability support pensioners, and people with a disability who receive a TAC benefit. Evidence of eligibility, such as an NDIS or TAC statement, is required. People unable to attend a state-run testing site can request Disability Liaison Officer support or email DLOcoordinator@dhhs.vic.gov.au

COVID positive antiviral factsheet for participants

The Australian Government has developed a fact sheet for participants, authorised decision-makers, and family to help discuss with a GP the suitability and prescription of COVID oral health treatments if they are diagnosed with COVID.

COVID oral health treatments were previously described as COVID antiviral medication. The term ‘antiviral’ has been associated with various conditions including sexually transmissable infections in some communities. Workers who support people living in residential settings, or receiving in-home support, are asked to discuss and support individuals, where needed, to visit a GP as soon as possible for a discussion regarding COVID oral health treatment. They are encouraged to take a copy of the fact sheet with them.

GP Respiratory Clinics

New GP respiratory clinics have opened across Victoria, allowing patients with low to moderate symptoms to receive free and immediate treatment for a range of respiratory conditions such as asthma, influenza and pneumonia. They also provide care for people with COVID-19, including by telehealth. Visit GP Respiratory Clinics – COVID-19 for more information.

Extension of pandemic leave disaster payment

The Commonwealth Government has agreed to reinstate the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment to 30 September 2022. This payment provides support for people who cannot earn an income because they or someone they’re caring for has to self-isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19. More information will be posted on the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment website soon.

Upcoming event: Living with COVID-19: Information sharing and collaboration series

Friday, 5 August, Online meeting

This important live update will include COVID, and winter illness support available through the NDIA, Victorian Government, and the Local Primary Health Units.

Learn more about this event and register: Living with COVID-19: Information sharing and collaboration series