Page 943 - Week 04 - Thursday, 7 May 2020
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video
We understand that Canberrans want to stay informed about the situation. That is why the ACT government established a dedicated COVID-19 website for all information about the health and economic response to the pandemic in the ACT at www.covid19.act.gov.au. A number of resources are available for those who might be feeling anxious or concerned about COVID-19. Links to these resources are available at the ACT’s COVID-19 website, including help and advice for individuals, families and businesses.
The ACT government has also established a helpline to assist Canberrans through the challenges of COVID-19. The helpline contact number is 02 6207 7244, and it is open between 8 am and 8 pm daily. People who are concerned and want further information on the virus can also call the Australian government’s coronavirus health information line on 1800 020 080. This line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
I would also encourage people who want the important news about COVID-19 and our response to it delivered straight to them on a regular basis to sign up to the Our CBR e-newsletter. It is always a good source of information about the ACT government’s activities and initiatives, and it has never been more useful than during this pandemic.
Madam Speaker, these past months have been very difficult for all Canberrans. We have experienced the effects of catastrophic bushfires in our region, smoke, dust and hailstorms, and barely a pause before the onset of this global pandemic. I want to acknowledge the cumulative effect and the toll of these events and the impacts on people’s health and wellbeing, including mental health.
I encourage Canberrans to stay focused on the practical things they can do to protect themselves, their families and the most vulnerable in our community. I also want to assure Canberrans that the government is putting in place measures to support those impacted, with increased community and mental health support. If we continue to work together, we will keep our community strong. Please continue to follow the health advice in relation to practising good hand hygiene and physical distancing.
Understanding COVID-19 can reduce anxiety. But constantly watching or listening to information about distressing events can make things feel worse. So stay informed but be kind to yourself and do not expect to have all the answers, difficult though that might be.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank staff across our health system for all that they are doing to keep our community safe. They are tireless in their efforts, and we know that there is still a long road ahead. I also thank the community for their understanding and patience during this challenging period. Together, we have flattened the curve. And we will get through this if we stay strong together.
I present the following paper:
Coronavirus (COVID-19)—ACT Government response—Ministerial statement, 7 May 2020.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . . Video