A snap seven-day lockdown announced on Thursday led to Canberrans being sent home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As services, businesses and infrastructure respond to the developing situation, we've compiled the latest information on what you need to know during day one of the ACT's lockdown.
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Can I access financial support?
Eligible workers in ACT can apply for the COVID-19 disaster payment from August 20 on myGov.
The payment provides $750 per week if a worker has lost 20 or more hours of work, and $450 per week if they have lost between eight and less than 20 hours of work.
People already receiving an income support payment can also claim an extra payment of $200 if they have lost eight hours or more of work, and meet the other eligibility requirements for the COVID-19 disaster payment.
You can check your eligibility to receive the COVID-19 here.
A business support package will provide a lump sum $3000 payment to businesses and $1000 to sole traders who have experienced a 30 per cent reduction in turnover during the week of lockdown. Read more about that here.
Can I use public transport?
Buses and light rail are running on their regular scheduled timetable, though people are reminded to only use transport for essential travel and that those over 12 years of age must wear a mask.
School services, including the special needs transport service, will continue to run for children of essential workers.
The flexible bus service is continuing for those who need it, however those who are feeling unwell are asked not to use it. More transport information is available here.
What's happening with waste and recycling removal?
Residential red and yellow bin collections will begin from 5am on Friday, August 13, as a preventative measure to ensure no service disruptions.
There is no change to the start times of collections for green bins, which remain as 7am.
Pre-booked bulky waste collections are continuing at this stage. More information is available here.
Are parks open?
Most parks are open and accessible to people on their allowed one hour of daily exercise but the ACT government is asking people not to leave their local region.
The following parks are closed: Namadgi National Park (including the visitors'centre), Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (including the visitors' centre), Lower Cotter Catchment, Cotter precinct (including Cotter Campground and Blue Range), Kambah Pool, Uriarra Crossing, Woods Reserve Campground, Northern Borders Campground and Googong Foreshores.
A number of other public spaces will be closed during lockdown, including: playgrounds, outdoor fitness stations, skate parks, BBQs and dog parks.
All sportsgrounds in the ACT are closed for organised sport but can be used for essential exercise, provided people are maintaining physical distance.
Can I visit the library?
All branches of Libraries ACT will be closed, as well as ACT Heritage Library.
Items on loan have had their due dates extended until August 31, and library return chutes are closed.
The home library service and mystery box service will be temporarily suspended.
Members can access digital resources online using the Libraries ACT website.
How are funeral services affected?
Funeral services will continue with a maximum of 10 people allowed to attend.
Gungahlin Crematorium will continue operating, with capacity limited to eight people in the private viewing room.
Canberra Memorial Parks' head office is closed to the public. Arrangements can be made via 6207 0000 during office hours or email cemeteries@act.gov.au.
Are Domestic Animal Services available?
The Domestic Animal Services (DAS) shelter in Symonston is closed to the public except by appointment, which can be made via 132 281.
The shelter is staffed to care for the dogs in DAS' care and DAS Rangers will continue to respond to call outs for community safety.
Will the roads be affected?
Existing construction projects will be closed and sites will be secured to prevent entry. Additional signage, fencing and bollards will be installed to ensure public safety where required on projects that are under way.
Roads ACT will continue to respond to emergencies as required.
What do I do if I'm not safe at home?
Those who are affected by domestic and family violence are allowed to leave home to seek help during the lockdown.
"If you need help today, or think you'll need help during the seven-day lockdown, because of violence or threatening behaviour at home, contact the Domestic Violence Crisis Service, Victim Support ACT or one of our partner organisations," ACT Victims of Crime commissioner Heidi Yates said in a statement.
"Unfortunately, we know that perpetrators of violence can use lockdowns as an excuse to be violent, to be controlling, to threaten their partners, children or other family members.
"If this is your situation, you're not alone. Reach out to one of our services. We will listen. We can provide crisis accommodation and other services and support."
The following contacts are open and ready to help victims of domestic or family violence:
- Domestic Violence Crisis Service 24/7 crisis line Ph 6280 0900.
- Canberra Rape Crisis Centre Ph 6247 2525, 7am-11pm.
- Victim Support ACT Ph 6205 2222 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.
- Women's Legal Centre Ph 6257 4377, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.
- Legal Aid ACT Helpline Ph 1300 654 314, Mon-Fri 8.30am-4.30pm.
- 1800RESPECT 24/7, if you're affected by sexual or domestic violence.
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