Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a respiratory illness caused by a new virus. On this page you will find resources designed to help you stay informed.
Latest health.gov.au updatesThe Australian Government has announced new measures for Pacific workers who are in Australia through the Pacific Labour Scheme (PLS) and Seasonal Worker Programme (SWP).
Any PLS or SWP worker whose visa is about to expire can now stay in Australia for up to 12 months.
This means they can continue to provide for themselves and their families back home, and also help keep Australia’s essential services running during the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information on how PLS and SWP workers can stay in Australia, visit the:
Please note: Workers will need to ask their employers for help to apply for a new visa.
You should practice good hygiene by making sure you:
People who have coronavirus may have a fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue or shortness of breath. If you think you have the virus, first call your doctor or a medical clinic.
Visit the Department of Health coronavirus web page for more information.
If you are severely unwell or have serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing, phone 000 (triple zero) for urgent medical assistance.
If you are a worker and cannot meet your immediate living expenses at this time, you can contact the Australian Tax Office to find out if you can access your Australian superannuation: 13 10 20.
Latest travel advice: Smartraveller website.
National coronavirus helpline (24 hours a day, seven days a week): 1800 020 080.
Local state and territory health department contacts: Department of Health website.
Victoria coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398.
Queensland community recovery hotline: 1800 173 349.
Pacific Labour Facility 24-hour hotline: 1800 51 51 31, or email welfare@pacificlabourfacility.com.au.
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36 or beyondblue.org.au.
Lifeline Australia: call 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.
Answers to workers’ frequently asked questions about coronavirus
Information for Pacific workers who want to apply for another visa
Download the Coronavirus Australia government app: Apple App Store | Google Play
Download the Australian government Covidsafe app: covidsafe.gov.au | aus.gov.au/app
Australian government coronavirus WhatsApp channel: iOS or Android
General health advice about COVID-19
General health advice about COVID-19 in Bislama | Fijian | Gilbertese | Nauruan | Samoan | Solomon Islands Pidgin | Tetum | Tok Pisin | Tongan | Tuvaluan
Advice for workers who are self-isolating
Advice for workers who are self-isolating in Bislama | Fijian | Gilbertese | Samoan | Tetum | Tongan
Information on social distancing