We are all grappling with the uncertainty of the ongoing and developing situation with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The situation is ever-changing, and we need to adapt to changes in the Australian and global environment to mitigate the risks from the continued spread of the virus.

AUSVEG has in place an effective business continuity plan that allows for staff to work remotely in the event of a forced office shutdown, which will ensure that the organisation can continue to operate with minimal disruption.

We are closely monitoring the local and global situation and will communicate any important information over the coming weeks and months.

 

Health

It is critical that everyone look after their own health and that of their families, workers and their communities. If anyone wants more information on COVID-19, including the symptoms and what to do if you suspect you might be at risk of infection, please visit https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert or call the National Incident Response Centre on 1800 020 080.

Guidelines on isolation can be found here.

Up-to-date resources on COVID-19 can be found on the Department of Health website here.

 

Employers and employees

AUSVEG State Member Growcom has prepared a detailed guide for employers and employees regarding COVID-19 – please click here to view the document (please note that given the evolving situation with COVID-19, Growcom makes no claims or guarantees about the completeness, accuracy or currency of this information).

Information on preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace for employers can be found via https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-employers.

The World Health Organization has developed a factsheet on ‘Getting your workplace ready for COVID-19’, which details how you can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace.

Coronavirus information and support for businesses, including information on employers’ obligations and information on government assistance, can be found via https://business.gov.au/risk-management/emergency-management/coronavirus-information-and-support-for-business.

Information from the Department of Home Affairs on international travellers, including travel restrictions, international travellers and information for visas, can be found at https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/news-media/current-alerts/novel-coronavirus.

 

Fresh produce

It is important to note that it is unlikely that COVID-19 will be passed on through fresh produce. More information around the COVID-19 and fresh produce can be found at the Australian Research Centre for Food Safety in the Fresh Produce Industry website in this article by Dr Hayriye Bozkurt.

 

In relation to Hort Connections 2020, we are monitoring advice from government regarding the holding of events and will have more detailed communication in due course.

I urge everyone to heed the advice of medical authorities to ensure their safety, as well as the safety of their families, loved ones, workers and communities. If you require any further information, please contact AUSVEG on 03 9882 0277 or email info@ausveg.com.au.

 

– Bill Bulmer, AUSVEG Chair