As Victoria navigated the challenges of its second wave of COVID-19 in November 2020, Somali Community Inc. Victoria (SCI) remained committed to ensuring that every member of the Somali community had access to accurate, timely, and culturally accessible public health information. This post brings together key guidance distributed by SCI during that period, drawn directly from official Victorian Department of Health resources and made available in both English and Somali.

Understanding Victoria's Restrictions

Throughout November 2020, Victoria's COVID-19 restrictions were progressively eased following the significant reduction in daily case numbers achieved during the Stage 4 lockdown. It was important for all community members to understand what was permitted at each step of the reopening roadmap.

Key restriction rules at the time included:

• Limits on the number of visitors permitted in the home — initially up to two visitors per day, then expanding as the roadmap progressed.
• A five-kilometre travel limit that was lifted for metropolitan Melbourne as Victoria moved to the next step of reopening.
• Limits on outdoor gatherings, with groups of up to ten people permitted in public spaces under the later stages.
• Businesses such as cafes, restaurants, retail, and personal care services reopening progressively with strict density and hygiene requirements.

Mask Requirements

Wearing a face mask was mandatory across metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire throughout the second wave and into the reopening period. The rules were clear: every person aged 12 and over was required to carry a face mask at all times when leaving home and to wear it whenever they could not maintain 1.5 metres of physical distance from others.

Masks were required in all indoor settings, on public transport, in supermarkets and retail stores, and in any outdoor area where distancing from others was not possible. There were limited exemptions — for example, for people with certain medical conditions or disabilities — but these exemptions required medical documentation.

COVID-19 Testing — Where to Get Tested

Testing remained one of the most important tools in controlling the spread of COVID-19. SCI strongly encouraged all community members to get tested if they experienced any symptoms, including a runny nose, sore throat, fever, cough, or shortness of breath — even mild symptoms.

Testing sites across Melbourne were free of charge and did not require a Medicare card or referral from a doctor at most community testing centres. To find your nearest testing location:

• Visit the Victorian Department of Health website to use the online testing site finder.
• Call the COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 675 398 for guidance on the nearest suitable testing site.
• Contact your local GP clinic, as many also offered testing by appointment during this period.

While awaiting test results, community members were required to isolate at home and avoid contact with other people, particularly those who were elderly or had underlying health conditions.

Support Services Available to the Community

SCI recognised that the pandemic placed enormous pressure on families — financially, emotionally, and socially. A range of support services were available to Victorian residents during this period, and SCI encouraged community members to access them without hesitation.

Financial Support

• The COVID-19 Disaster Payment and other Federal Government income support payments were available for workers who lost hours due to restrictions.
• The Victorian Rent Relief Grant provided assistance to renters in financial hardship.
• Food relief services were available through local councils and organisations such as Foodbank Victoria.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

• Beyond Blue's COVID-19 support line: 1800 512 348 (free, available 24/7).
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 for crisis support and suicide prevention.
• The Victorian Government's Head to Health initiative for free mental health support.

Interpreter Services

All Victorian Department of Health COVID-19 phone lines offered free interpreter services. Community members who preferred to communicate in Somali were encouraged to request an interpreter when calling any health or government service. The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) was available on 131 450 and could connect callers with Somali interpreters around the clock.

Nabad iyo caafimaad ayaa muhiim ah — Health and safety matter. SCI is committed to ensuring every member of our community has the information they need to stay safe and support one another through this pandemic.

— Somali Community Inc. Victoria

SCI will continue to share updated public health information as Victoria's situation evolves. We urge all community members to follow official health advice, look out for their neighbours and elders, and reach out for support when needed. Together, we can protect our community and help bring this pandemic under control. For the most current information, visit the Victorian Department of Health website or contact SCI directly.