Here is a guide to essential information regarding the current Covid-19 situation in the ACT. We will continue to update this page as new information becomes available.

Last Updated: 13 Jan 2021

 

Covid-19 Testing

Where can I get tested for COVID-19 in the ACT?

Information on where to get tested in the ACT is available here:

Where to get tested in the ACT – COVID-19

Information on types of COVID tests and what to do if you get a positive result is available here:

About COVID-19 testing – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

A dedicated Access and Sensory testing service for people with a disability or mental health condition is available at the COVID-19 Surge Centre at Garran, 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, 7 days a week, including public holidays. If you wish to make use of this service please make this known to staff on arrival.

 

COVID-19 Vaccination

How can I book my COVID-19 vaccine or booster dose?

Information on making a booking for the COVID-19 vaccine or booster is available here:

Booking your COVID-19 vaccination – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

Can people with a disability and their carers access support to get their COVID-19 vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccination information for people with disability, support staff, volunteers and carers is available here:

Information for people with disability – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has released updated advice on COVID-19 booster doses and third doses for immunocompromised people. Information is available here:

Update on booster and third doses – 24 December 2021 – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

 

Information for People who test positive for COVID-19

What should I do if I test positive for COVID-19?

Information for people who test positive for Covid-19, including how to manage COVID-19 at home, is available here:

Information for people who test positive for COVID-19 – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

Helpful tips on making a plan and being well prepared should anyone in your household test positive for COVID-19 is available here:

Managing COVID-19 at home | Health (act.gov.au)

 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

How can people in the community access PPE and face masks if they don’t have capacity to purchase them?

Information about access to PPE for the community and allied health services is available here:

https://www.covid19.act.gov.au/stay-safe-and-healthy/protect-yourself#Personal-protective-equipment-for-the-community-and-allied-health-services

Requests for PPE can be submitted through the PPE online request form.

Who is required to wear N95 masks?

Information about appropriate use of PPE is available here:

https://health.act.gov.au/businesses/non-government-community-disability-and-health-service-providers#personalprotectiveequipment

 

Access to ACT Hospitals and Health Facilities

Are there any current restrictions for carers regarding access to hospitals and health care facilities in the ACT?

Canberra’s health facilities have reintroduced a no-visitor policy from 26 Dec 2021, with some exceptions. Carers will be able to continue supporting people they care for who need assistance to access hospital care, including in the Emergency Department, but this will be limited to one person. Carers are encouraged to get in contact with any ACT health facility before planning to visit, to understand how this policy might apply to your particular circumstance.

For more information, please visit: Hospital visitor restrictions to tighten after Christmas – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

 

Managing COVID-19 in ACT Hospitals

As COVID-related hospitalisations continue to increase, ACT Health are making changes to the way they manage COVID-19 in hospital settings to ensure that all patients are safe and receive the best care. This means that our hospitals are the safest places to be in the ACT for those who need care, and you should not delay treatment if you or the person you care for needs it.

For more information on how COVID is being managed in our hospitals, please visit: Managing the Omicron variant in our hospitals – COVID-19 (act.gov.au)

 

Mental Health Support

Information on supporting mental health and wellbeing during COVID-19 is available here:

Mental Health and Wellbeing during COVID-19 | Health (act.gov.au)

 

In-home Vaccinations

The COVID-19 Vaccination Program Team at ACT Health has advised that if anyone feels they may require in-reach into their home because they have significant barriers to access other vaccination options, they can ring the ACT vaccination booking line (02 5124 7700 and choose option 3 for the dedicated disability line). You will be able to speak to someone who will take your information and someone from the COVID-19 Vaccination Program team will reach out and coordinate vaccination in home.