Protect yourself and others from COVID-19
There are important steps you should take to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect yourself and those who are most at risk.
Hygiene
Everyone plays a part in stopping the spread of COVID-19 by having good personal hygiene:
- wash your hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water
- use alcohol-based hand sanitisers when you can’t use soap and water
- avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- clean and disinfect surfaces you use often such as benchtops, desks and doorknobs
- clean and disinfect objects you use often such as mobile phones, keys, wallets and work passes.
If you have cold or flu like symptoms you should get tested for COVID-19, even if your symptoms are mild.
Masks
Wearing a mask can help protect you and those around you. To use a mask properly you should:
- wash or sanitise your hands before putting it on or taking it off
- make sure it covers your nose and mouth and fits snugly under your chin
- avoid touching the front of your mask while wearing or removing it
- keep it in place – don't hang it around your neck or under your nose
- use a new single use mask each time
- wash and dry reusable masks after use and store in a clean dry place.
Wondering if you need to wear a mask, or if you can travel interstate? To avoid waiting on a helpline, check the COVID-19 Restriction Checker for the rules in your area.
Physical distancing
One way to slow the spread of COVID-19 is physical distancing. The more space between you and others, the harder it is for the virus to spread.
Physical distancing means:
- keeping 1.5 metres away from others wherever possible
- avoiding physical greetings such as handshaking, hugs and kisses
- practising extra care on public transport
- avoiding crowds and large gatherings
- practising good hygiene
- getting tested and staying at home if you have any cold or flu symptoms.
Other protections and support
- Being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 reduces your risk of severe illness, hospitalisation and death.
- Get tested for COVID-19 if you experience any cold or flu symptoms.
- Support is available if you need help accessing health care or medicines.
- Keep up to date with the domestic travel, international travel and restrictions advice.
- Find information about COVID-19 in your language.