Last Updated: 10 February 2021
The laws around COVID-19 are changing rapidly. We recommend you check here for the most up to date COVID-19 information from the Department of Health and Human Services.
Changes to renting laws
There have been significant changes to the Victorian renting laws due to covid-19.
These covid-19 renting laws are expected to remain until 29 March 2021 when they are replaced by Victoria’s new renting laws.
The best place to read about the covid-19 renting laws is here: https://www.tenantsvic.org.au/advice/coronavirus-covid-19/
And the best place to read about the current and new renting laws is here: https://www.tenantsvic.org.au/
Changes to employment laws
There were temporary covid-19 changes to Australia’s employment laws (known as Jobkeeper).
Jobkeeper is currently due to end on 28 March 2021.
The best place to read about employment rights is here: http://jobwatch.org.au/jobkeeper-2-0-qa/
And if you are a young worker (under 30) we recommend you get in touch with our friends at the Young Workers Centre: https://www.youngworkers.org.au/
Current Victorian covid-19 settings
The covid-19 settings are rapidly changing and we recommend you get the latest information directly from the Department here: https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
Do I have to wear a face mask?
The rules around face masks keep changing. You can find the current rules here.
As of 3 February 2021 it is really important that you carry a face mask with you at all times.
The latest update also requires you to:
- Wear face masks in indoor spaces (including workplaces). It is recommended to wear them when visotirs come to your home.
- While in indoor spaces (apart from eating and drinking)
You must still wear a mask in a number of places including:
- On public transport
- In taxis or ride shares (like Uber)
- When going to large retail venues (shopping centres, supermarkets, Bunnings etc)
- Shopping Centres
- Indoor markets
- On flights/at the airport
- In hospitals
- When visiting aged care.
You are still encouraged to wear a mask indoors and outdoors when you cannot keep 1.5 meters distance from other people.
If you don’t follow the rules – the police may give you a fine. You should contact us for advice if you get a fine.
There are some exceptions to having to wear a face covering. For example, if you have a certain medical condition. You can find more information on the requirement to wear a face covering here.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
If you can’t find the answer to your question here, please call to speak to a lawyer on 03 9113 9500 or send an email to legal@youthlaw.asn.au and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.