The Premier Daniel Andrews has announced stage three of the shutdown of non-essential activities in Victoria to help slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
While the police now have powers to fine individuals and businesses who don’t follow the rules, I’d prefer to focus on our social obligations and emphasise that all group activities must cease.
I’ve seen the innovation and creativity across the triathlon community that demonstrates our ability to adapt and find new ways. Check out our ‘activities page’ to find something to keep you fit, healthy and engaged … yoga, pilates, education webinars, etc (and if you want to add to the list simply contact us)
I acknowledge that this is an extremely challenging and difficult time, but unfortunately the next step to flattening the curve will likely involve more measures and restrictions in the coming days and weeks. We must all contribute to the solution and for the moment that is simply to stay home.
The new restrictions
These new restrictions specify that the following sport and recreation centres must close:
- health clubs, fitness centres, yoga, barre and spin facilities
- social sporting-based activities
- swimming pools, both public and shared
- saunas, bathhouses and wellness centres
- community and recreation centres (unless engaged in hosting essential voluntary or public services, such as food banks or homeless services)
Boot camps and personal training services can continue only if they are outdoor with a maximum of 2 people at any one session (ensuring no more than 1 person for every 4 square metres of space)
Sporting-based activities
Under the new rules, can outdoor social sporting-based activities that allow for adequate social distance between players still proceed?
All social sporting-based activities must close as part of the current restrictions in place. While these new restrictions may raise questions for some organisations regarding application to your particular circumstance (e.g. social sporting-based activity), please remember the Premier’s key message for Victorians is that if you can stay home, you must stay home.
Financial support
I’m a club/coach, what financial support is available to my sport or recreation organisation?
The Victorian Government has announced a $1.7 billion economic and jobs package to help Victorian businesses and workers survive the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19). From today, the first round of grants from the Government’s $500 million Business Support Fund will be accessible with $10,000 grants available for over 30,000 employers who don’t pay payroll tax ( register with Business Victoria to receive more details on the program).
The Australian Government’s package includes grants of up to $100,000 to eligible small and medium sized businesses, and not‑for-profits (including charities) that employ people, with a minimum payment of $20,000.
Key resources
- For health and physical distancing guidelines refer to the DHHS coronavirus website .
- For further information on bans and how they apply to mass gatherings, read the Government’s latest advice
- For the latest information and guidelines visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au
Again, we must all contribute to the solution and for the moment that is simply to stay home. If you require any assistance during this time, simply e-mail or call and let us know how we can help.
Keep safe and healthy,
Grant Cosgriff
Executive Director
