RetireAustralia Coronavirus update: 11 June 2020

Published: 11 June 2020

Thank you for embracing the changes in the first phase of easing of restrictions in our villages. Getting used to new ways of doing things is a big adjustment but following these guidelines is helping keep residents safe, and there’s nothing more important than that.

Phase two of easing of restrictions

In the last few weeks we have seen state governments approach the easing of restrictions differently as they respond to the specifics of COVID-19 case numbers in their state, local demographics, geography and other factors.

We have been closely monitoring government guidance and listening to our residents who have given feedback on the easing of restrictions in their villages. This is why we have adopted a village by village approach for the next phase of easing restrictions.

A village by village approach

A village by village approach means we can tailor the easing of restrictions to the specific needs of your community and respond to specific state guidance. This approach means we can take into account:

How the buildings in your village are laid out and how facilities and activities can be safely opened up for residents’ enjoyment with social distancing and cleaning between uses.
How close your village might be to active COVID-19 cases in the community,
Whether there are any factors that might make residents in your community more vulnerable to the virus.
The comfort levels of residents about reopening facilities and restarting activities.

Yesterday we met with the Chairs of our Resident Committees to take them through ths approach and to answer their questions. They are supportive and over the next few days they will be working with your Village Manager and Resident Committee to put together a plan for the next phase of easing restrictions in your village.

You can expect to hear more about the plan for your village by next week.

Protect yourself while participating in the things you enjoy

Just a reminder about the key things you should do to protect yourself and others from germs:

Keep your distance – at least 1.5 metres or 2 large steps.
Don’t shake hands, hug or kiss.
Wash and dry your hands thoroughly and frequently.
Cough or sneeze into your elbow.
If you are told to self-isolate, do so immediately.
If you are sick, stay home.
If you are concerned about your wellbeing, or have underlying health conditions, work with your GP to understand how best to stay healthy.
Stay vigilant. There is still a global pandemic going on.

If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 please stay at home and call your GP or the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 020 080 immediately.

Your health and wellbeing

COVID-19 specific services and supports that RetireAustralia has put in place such as wellness checks, grocery shopping support and the COVID-19 Virtual Help Desk will continue through phase two. When we get to stage three in late June/ early July, and life is closer to ‘normal’, we will review these services.

Any questions?

Your village team is just a phone call away if you need anything. They are your first point of contact, so if your query is urgent please contact them directly.

For less urgent enquiries, please contact our COVID-19 Virtual Help team on 1800 325 046 or info@retireaustralia.com.au.

Thanks again

We have all had an enormous, and at times difficult, few months. It has been fantastic to receive all your feedback about our team. We think they have done an incredible job of keeping everyone safe.

We have not had a case of COVID-19 among any residents or staff. This isn’t something we take for granted and we will not drop our guard while the virus is still out there.

Thank you all for your cooperation and goodwill during this time.