Council to establish COVID-19 support team

A Fraser Coast Regional Council ‘COVID-19 Support Team’ will be established to help educate local businesses, sporting clubs and community groups about their responsibilities under Queensland public health directions.

Mayor George Seymour said while Queensland Health was the lead agency responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, Council had a role to play in educating the local community about the importance of complying with COVID Safe requirements.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all, and we all need to work together to slow its spread,” he said.

“Council has today agreed to allocate up to $300,000 from our $1 million COVID Business and Community Support Fund to establish a COVID-19 Support Team within the Regulatory Services department.

“This team will include existing Environmental Health Officers, with Council also looking to employ an additional Environmental Health Officer for twelve months and four support officers for six months.

“The team’s immediate focus will be on education and awareness, for both Council staff as well as businesses, sporting groups, community groups and event hosts.

“This may involve hosting information sessions, conducting on-site visits, providing advice on Approved Industry COVID Safe Plans, and distributing fact sheets and other information.

“It’s important everyone understands their requirements about collecting contact details for workers, volunteers and attendees that may be needed for contact tracing down the track.

“As awareness increases, compliance and enforcement actions may follow, which could include warnings, fines and the issuing of Public Health Orders. We would hope that this would not be necessary though once there is better understanding of COVID Safe responsibilities and obligations.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we go about our daily lives and the situation is constantly evolving.

“It’s important we all continue to practice good hygiene, abide by physical distancing guidelines and follow the advice of health authorities, including getting tested at local fever clinics if required.”

Anyone seeking more information and the latest COVID-19 advice is encouraged to visit www.australia.gov.au and www.covid19.qld.gov.au/