Defence response to COVID-19
Defence says it is following whole-of-government guidance from the Department of Health in relation to COVID-19 and continues to monitor the situation, with a priority on the health and wellbeing of personnel.
Each and every one of us can take steps to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
It is important to remember that for the vast majority of people, the illness will be mild or moderate and individuals will make a full recovery.
Updated at 1pm 12/03/2020
- Confirmed Defence cases to date: 3
Preventative measures
To address the risk of COVID-19 infection within Defence and the general community, all Australian Defence Force (ADF), Defence APS and contractors working in Defence establishments who present with cold/flu like symptoms must remove themselves from the workplace and notify their supervisor/Chain of Command.
It is important for the protection of others that personnel phone ahead of presentation to any health facility. In some cases, advice may be provided over the phone without the need to attend in person. Testing is only required in specific circumstances and will be arranged in accordance with Department of Health guidelines.
Personnel can return to work when they are symptom-free unless otherwise directed by their health care provider or a public health unit.
How to Report
- ADF and eligible foreign military members should speak with the Defence Health Centre via phone or by contacting 1800IMSICK for advice on whether further assessment is required. On contacting 1800IMSICK, they may be transferred to 1800 DEFENCE (1800 333 362) to help Defence implement preventive measures and monitor the impact on operations.
- APS and contractors should seek care through their usual health care provider and contact 1800 DEFENCE (1800 333 362) to help Defence implement preventive measures and monitor the impact on operations.
For more information on what to do in the event you or a member of your family have come into contact with someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, what a diagnosis means for you and/or your family, and what to do in self-isolation, please refer to information on COVID-19 provided by the Department of Health or your State or Territory health authority.
Defence is working in partnership with other Commonwealth agencies as part of a Whole-of-Government approach and response. This includes decisions on travel and planned events or activities. Before undertaking any business or personal travel, Defence members must refer to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller website. This website reflects the most up-to-date information about international travel.
Personnel deployed overseas
ADF members returning from operations and exercises abroad are subject to all quarantine and protective measures as directed by the Australian Border Force and the Department of Health.
ADF members overseas are directed to follow protective measures outlined in the Department of Health guidelines and comply with screening and quarantine measures of the relevant host nation.
Defence continues to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation in Australia and around the globe, and continues to assess the risk to its operations and exercises.
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