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Coronavirus

 

To ensure housing and homelessness organisations are well prepared, the DHPW are taking a proactive approach in providing information and engaging with organisations.

 

The following steps may assist in minimising impacts of Coronavirus to service delivery.

 

  1. Stay up to date on COVID-19

The Queensland Health website is the best place to go for accurate information about the virus in Queensland and what you can do to prevent transmission and minimise service impacts.

 

  1. Provide COVID-19 information to clients and staff

Place relevant government advice, which can be accessed via the Queensland Health website, in a prominent position such as on noticeboards, at your office, and in communal facilities. Information can also be sent out via your staff and client newsletters. This may include information about practical ways to help minimise transmission, including asking clients and staff to stay home if they are unwell.

You may wish to provide your clients with the attached printable pocket-sized fact sheet, which provides current Queensland Health COVID-19 information.

 

  1. Review and update your business continuity plan

This includes taking protective measures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your staff and briefing them about your business continuity arrangements.

To assist your organisation to review and update your business continuity plan, please see resources developed by the Queensland Council of Social Services and the Community Services Industry Alliance.

 

  1. Notify any risks to continuity of service

If your organisation identifies any anticipated issues or risks in ensuring continuity of service, please notify DHPW by contacting the team on (07) 3007 4455 or via email hhsprogramsbc@hpw.qld.gov.au.

If you become aware of a staff member or client with a confirmed case of COVID-19, please follow Queensland Health advice available at health.qld.gov.au/coronavirus or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84).

 

  1. Ensure client contact details are up to date

Ensure you have up-to-date contact information for all your clients.

 

  1. Australian Government economic stimulus payment

The Australian Government has announced an economic stimulus package in response to the economic impact of COVID 19. The stimulus package will include a one-off payment of $750 for individuals and households receiving an eligible government payment. Payments will be made from 31 March 2020 on a progressive basis.

Community housing and crisis accommodation providers are advised that the one-off payment is considered non-assessable for income eligibility and rent assessment confirmation purposes.

 

The DHPW thank you for your important role in working with them to respond to COVID-19 in Queensland.