The COVID rules are different in every state. And they will keep changing. The rules cover things like work, going out, meeting people, school, cafes, clubs and travel. It is hard to say what they mean for each person with a disability. Some people with a disability have health reasons that mean if they got COVID-19 they would be very unwell.
They might have a chronic condition or their immune system is weak.
To stay safe it may be best to stay home for longer.
For other people with a disability who do not have health issues, they can follow the rules for their area.
Your doctor is the best person to talk to about your health needs.
Call us if it is easier to talk to someone about the rules
IDEAS is part of the team answering calls on the COVID-19 Disability Information Helpline.
We can help you work out what the rules are in your area. You can then make plans about how you can manage for the next while.
Free Call: 1800 643 787
What information is in this blog?
Keeping Safe
Testing
Disability Support Services
NDIS
If you are staying home for longer
Things everyone needs to do to keep safe
- Staying home unless absolutely necessary
- Working from home, if you can
- Using phones for meetings
- Stop handshaking
- Tap to pay instead of using cash, if you can
- Stay two arms' lengths away from others
- Wash your hands for 20 seconds
- Exercise away from others
Testing
If you have any symptoms it is best to get tested.
Symptoms of COVID-19 are:
- fever
- coughing
- sore throat
- shortness of breath
Find out more about COVID-19 testing here.
Disability Support Services
Your service needs to let you know about any changes to your support.
You can ask questions at any time about your support and any changes.
You and your support staff still need to practice good hygiene.
Services have been given guidelines about doing this well.
If you are not happy about how they are doing things, it is ok to say so.
You can also speak to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
You can also speak to an Advocate.
NDIS
The NDIS has changed some rules about how you can use your funds. It means that some things may be able to be done differently.
Find out more the NDIS changes here.
If you are staying at home for longer
There are some things you can do to keep well.
Stay connected to people
- keep up phone calls and online meetups
- Find out more about staying connected here.
Use telehealth for appointments where you are able
- for doctors or specialists appointments
- for speech therapy, psychology or other therapy
- bulk billing will be in place till September 30 for some of these items
- Find out more about telehealth here.
Look after your mental health
- there is lots of support
- You can find mental health ideas and resources here.
Get shopping and medications delivered
- avoid going to shops and busy places
- ask friends, support workers or family to drop things off
- Find info on getting groceries here and medications here.
- Shopping online for the first time? Read our guide on shopping online safely.
Exercise safely and eat well
- 30 minutes of exercise every day is good
- try to eat healthy food
- more ideas on healthy living here.
