COVID-19 support and essential services

Health topics › COVID-19 › Report of ministry of health in Australia › COVID-19 support and essential services

How can I get food and essential supplies while isolating?

If you have COVID-19 and are isolating at home, it’s a good idea, where possible, to ask friends, family or neighbours to get essential supplies for you if they are not isolating too. They should drop items at your door but not enter your accommodation.
If you don’t have anyone nearby who can help, consider ordering groceries online.
Some supermarkets may have special arrangements for older people. Please contact your local supermarket directly for more information.

Can I get my medicines delivered to my home?

If you need medicine while you are isolating at home, ask a family member or carer if they can collect your medicine for you.
Electronic prescriptions can be forwarded to the person collecting your medicine so the pharmacist can scan the prescription.

Support for older people

Older people are at risk of serious illness from COVID-19. The risk is higher if you have other serious health conditions or a weakened immune system.
Getting vaccinated, including booster vaccination, is the most effective way to protect you against severe illness, hospitalisation and death from COVID-19.

Home care packages

If you have a home care package, the services you currently get will continue. However, there may be some changes in the way a service is delivered. For example, home care staff may limit person-to-person touch where possible, or wear masks and gloves.

If you are concerned about the way your current services are delivered or would like to make changes because of COVID-19, please contact your provider. They may be able to arrange help with going to the shops, or they may arrange for your carer to shop on your behalf.

Older Australians who need urgent assistance can get short-term home support services, such as meals and personal care, without needing to have an aged care assessment.

Mental health and wellbeing support

Feelings of anxiety, distress and concern are normal, and there are several steps you can take to look after your mental health.

Access support services

There are many support services that can help you so make sure you reach out when you need help.

Grief, loss and bereavement support

Callers are directed to self-care resources, group counselling or one-to-one counselling sessions with a bereavement specialist via telehealth, video call or in person.

Domestic violence support

If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, or if you have been threatened, physically hurt or sexually assaulted, call triple zero (000).

If you are currently self-isolating, you can still leave your home if there is family violence or a risk of violence.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Making small lifestyle changes can help increase your physical and mental wellbeing and decrease feelings of stress and anxiety:

create a daily routine that includes activities and hobbies that you enjoy
get active
eat well
stay connected to family and friends, in person or online

Financial support

Visit your state or territory government website to learn if financial support is available.

ACT
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia

If you’re an aged care worker, you may be able to get COVID-19 leave payment grants. Visit the Department of Health and Aged Care for more information.

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