Frequently asked questions
Are there activity restrictions?
Employees in self-quarantine cannot:
- leave that place except in an emergency
- allow other people into the accommodation
- be closer than 1.5 metres to others.
Employees in emergency accommodation for an extended period under compassionate grounds are not considered to be in self-quarantine but are required to follow the guidance and directives relating to restricted activity. Further information is available at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au.
How will food be provided to those in isolation?
Those in self-quarantine will provided three meals a day, delivered to your door. You will also have standard hotel cleaning services.
If placed where meals cannot be provided, we will work with the accommodation provide and deliver these. Allergies and special dietary needs will be met. Where room service is available, you can order it at your own expense.
Employees in emergency accommodation for an extended period under compassionate grounds are not considered to be in self-quarantine and will be placed in accommodation where they are able to self-cater.
What is the cost?
Accommodation and three meals per day will be provided free of charge.
The cost for any additional services, such as a mini-bar, 24-hour room service or photocopying will need to be met by the employee directly with the accommodation provider.
Can family or friends visit?
To limit any risk of COVID-19 transmission, employees should not visit family or friends, or have them at the emergency accommodation.
If diagnosed with COVID-19, the employee must not allow any visitors to the emergency accommodation unless for emergency purposes.
Will employees still attend work while in emergency accommodation?
Employees falling within Category 1 or 2 are not permitted to attend work. Those falling within Category 3 will be able to continue to attend work.
Can I leave the accommodation program?
Employees are required to self-quarantine for 14 days after close contact of a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19.
If employees are confirmed to have COVID-19 and move into emergency accommodation, they must complete self-quarantine in the accommodation.
Those who self-isolate or self-quarantine may feel well and not have any symptoms. If they become unwell while in self-isolation, they should seek medical care and advice.
What public health guidance and legal directions issued by the Chief Health Officer must I follow?
While at the accommodation, healthcare employees are expected to adhere to public health guidance for infection control, physical distancing and self-isolation, including any relevant directions of the Chief Health Officer. You will have been provided with relevant information at the point of diagnosis or notification as a close contact. Updated advice is available at: www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
Monash Health provides access to any testing that may be required during emergency accommodation. This could include if you develop symptoms during your stay, or if testing is required to determine (if diagnosed as a positive case) if you now meet the requirements to return to work. For further advice on testing, call the COVID-19 Helpline on 9594 5815.
Code of conduct while staying in emergency accommodation
By accepting a place in this emergency accommodation, the worker agrees to the Code of Conduct for this program for the duration of the emergency stay, including:
1. You undertake testing for COVID-19 as required by the program.
2. If you test positive for COVID-19 for the first time while in the emergency accommodation you will:
a) Immediately notify the Hotels for Heroes program on covid19.hcwaccom@dhhs.vic.gov.au and your employer.
b) Not leave your accommodation room for any reason other than an emergency, until transportation is arranged for you.
3. If you are self-isolating or confirmed to have COVID-19:
a) You will not attend work.
b) Agree to the terms of self-quarantine, which include that you cannot leave your accommodation room for any reason other than:
– an emergency; or
– as authorised by the program and arranged with on-site clinical management.
c) You will not visit family or friends, or have family or friends visit the emergency accommodation.
If you do not comply with the code of conduct you may be referred to an Authorised Officer under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act to consider whether an order be made to enact a detention order for posing a risk to public health.
What health and wellbeing support is available during a stay?
Monash Health will provide you with links to material of a general nature regarding COVID-19 and self-isolation/quarantine. There is also a wide range of resources available on the health and wellbeing page. This includes the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which can be accessed by calling 1300 687 327, and the Call a Psychologist service – call 0418 905 414.
As always, all healthcare employees should monitor their own health and wellbeing and seek medical attention if needed.
What if I require further assistance?
If you have any concerns about your emergency accommodation or require further assistance, send an email to COVID19employeeenquiries@monashhealth.org or call the COVID-19 Helpline on 9594 5815.