COVID-19 and Wagga Wagga

“Together, we will get through this.”
— Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr

Health Resources

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We know this pandemic is already impacting people’s health, jobs, housing security, and the wider economy. 

The cancellation of so many events, social distancing measures, and calls to self-quarantine are confronting, but critically important in minimising the spread of the disease.The most up-to-date NSW Health information can be found HERE.

A great deal of work is being done across the board to address this crisis and I assure you that I am in regular contact with the NSW Government, advocating for resources for those in need.

Listen to the experts, stay safe and protect your loved ones and vulnerable people who are at greater risk. 

Current advice is:

  • Clean your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based sanitisers with at least 60 per cent alcohol

  • Cover your sneeze or cough with your elbow or with tissue

  • Avoid close contact with people who are ill

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

  • Stay home if you are sick

Further Resources and Important Information

UPDATES

Food Security

We do not have a food crisis, so there is no need to panic buy or hoard. This behaviour is putting pressure on the system. 

This is a time when we need to be working together to prevent a major health crisis and maintain a safe and supported community that cares for everyone. 

Supermarkets and warehouses have provided assurances about the availability of stock and restrictions regarding when goods can be delivered have been lifted.

Stores are also taking measures to ensure access and security in store.

Woolworths and Coles supermarkets are opening stores from 7am to 8am exclusively for people who are elderly or have a disability, and hold a government-issued Pensioner Concession Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, Companion Card, Seniors Card, Disability Card or Health Care Card.

Coles has since extended this dedicated Community Hour to include emergency service and healthcare workers on Tuesdays and Thursdays - starting Thursday, March 26. Shoppers must hold Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) card, have a workplace ID or are wearing their work uniform.

Woolworths has also launched a Priority Assistance Delivery Service for the elderly and vulnerable. NSW Seniors Card holders are included. To apply, complete the form HERE or call 1800 000 610.

Supporting local business

The NSW Minister for Health and Medical Research has been issuing public health orders to protect the community and limit the spread of COVID-19.

These social restrictions and temporary closures are going to be impacting our community for some time, but there are ways we can still support our favourite businesses during this crisis.

A great many have already updated their services to keep staff employed and to stay operational.

To help spread the love and the food, The Daily Advertiser’s list below will outline which stores you can still support.

If you know of any restaurants, cafes or stores to add, send us a message via Facebook and we’ll pass it on to The DA.

I also encourage everyone to check out Wagga Wagga City Council’s Live local. Be local. initiative. With direct links to the most important and relevant information available to the business community, this site also provides details of webinars and online workshops to support our changing way of doing business. 

For manufacturers with the ability and desire to diversify their supply, the NSW Government is calling on companies to help fill gaps in the global distribution of the medical equipment and hygiene products below:

  • Hand sanitiser

  • Handwash soap

  • Gloves

  • Cleaning products

  • Protective clothing

  • Masks

  • Eyewear

  • Paper products (tissue paper and toilet paper)

A portal for manufacturers to offer to build parts or supply these eight urgently needed items during the COVID-19 crisis can be found HERE.

Surviving Self-isolation

As social distancing, isolation and quarantine measures become the new norm, it is more important than ever that we support each other and reach out to those impacted most by solitude.

There are a number of online and local groups, working to keep communication lines open during isolation and I encourage everyone to either jump on board these initiatives or to come up with fresh and creative ways to ensure we remain connected.

Financial Resources and Support

The Federal Government’s economic response to Coronavirus and the NSW Government’s stimulus package are set to bring some relief to small business, industry and those most in need. 

Below is a list of websites with information about financial, workplace, small business and renter resources:

If you require further support with financial assistance contact your federal member of Parliament. 

  • For residents across the Wagga Wagga City and Lockhart Shire Councils, the Member for Riverina is Michael McCormack.

  • For residents living in Urana and across the Greater Hume, the Member for Farrer is Sussan Ley.

  • For residents living across the Snowy Valleys, the Member for Eden Monaro is Mike Kelly.