COVID-19 Information
About
This page features COVID-19 information and links to other websites that you may find useful.
If English is not your first language, there are more resources available on the multicultural community COVID-19 information webpage
Free Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits available at our civic centre
Free Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) kits are available from the Civic Centre at 20 Siding Avenue, Officer during opening hours. The program will run until 30 June 2023, or while stocks last.
- Everyone can collect up to 2 packs of 5 RATs per person, and 2 packs per household member. You do not need a Medicare card.
- If you have symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, please don’t collect RATs until you’re well.
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you can collect RATs from testing sites. To view testing sites visit the Coronavirus Victoria website.
- This service is brought to you by the Victorian Government’s Community RAT Program.
More info: View the media release
Coronavirus Victoria website
The current best source of information is the Coronavirus Victoria website
It has information on topics including:
- when to wear a face mask
- getting tested for COVID-19
- COVID-19 antiviral medicine
- how to report your positive RAT
If you're having trouble paying your rates
- Payment plan options – everyone is encouraged to request a rates payment plan after receiving their rates.
- Financial hardship – If you’re facing financial hardship and having difficulty making payments against your rates, we’re here to help. You can submit a financial hardship application form and we’ll be in touch to discuss your options.
Australian Government assistance for individuals and households
The Australian Government is providing a range of financial assistance and payments to support individuals and households.
Victorian Government assistance for individuals and households
Mental health support
Getting the support you need
If you feel you are in immediate danger, call 000.
It's normal to feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious during a time like this. It’s important to remind yourself that this is a normal reaction.
These organisations can offer you support during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Ph: 1800 595 212 (free call) Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm |
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Ph: 13 11 44 |
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Ph: 1300 65 94 67 |
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| Info | Rainbow Door is a free specialist LGBTIQA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Gender Diverse, Intersex, Queer, Asexual, BrotherBoys, SisterGirls) helpline providing information, support, and referral to all LGBTIQA+ Victorians, their friends and family during the COVID-19 crisis and beyond. |
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Ph: 1800 729 367 |
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Kids Helpline (for people aged 5 to 25) |
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Ph: 1800 55 1800 |
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Parentline Victoria |
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Headspace (for people 12 to 25) |
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Website: Group chats |
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Reach Out (for under 25s) |
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Website: Online forums |
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Ph: 1300 22 4636 |
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Ph: 1300 78 99 78 |
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Ph: 1800 435 799 |
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Ph: 1800 18 7263 |
Family violence support
Family violence frontline services, including crisis accommodation, police and courts continue to operate to support women, children and families during the coronavirus emergency.
Where to get assistance
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The state-wide crisis service for those who need to leave a violent situation and access emergency crisis accommodation. |
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20 Princes Highway, Dandenong Ph: 9791 6111, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Berwick office currently closed. View information about family violence support services |
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1800 819 817 or text 0427 767 891 (8am to 11pm every day) |
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| Sexual Assault Crisis Line | 1800 806 292 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) |
| Men's Referral Service | 1300 766 491 (8am to 9pm Monday to Friday; 9am to 5pm Saturday and Sunday)
For men using controlling behaviour. |
| MensLine Australia | Support for Australian men, anytime, anywhere, if you have family and relationship concerns. Ph: 1300 78 99 78 |
| Child FIRST |
Each Child and Family Information, Referral and Support Team (Child FIRST) team provides a central referral point to a range of community-based family services and other supports within specific areas. Cardinia Shire ph: 9705 3939 |
| Child Protection | To assist children and young people at risk of harm or where families are unable or unwilling to protect them. Ph: 1300 655 795 (South Division intake, which includes Cardinia Shire) (5pm to 9am Monday to Friday, 24 hours on weekends and public holidays) |
| Kids Helpline | 1800 55 1800 |