Single site arrangements are one of many infection control measures which can help to limit transmission of COVID-19. The Guidance on practical steps to prepare for and implement a single site workforce is contained in the National COVID-19 Aged Care Plan (Appendix H) and sets out actions for providers to take at various stages, in line with agreed escalation tiers.
Recent outbreaks have triggered the activation of single site working arrangements and associated support funding, in line with formal hotspot declarations from the Chief Medical Officer. Given the prolonged nature of the lockdown in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), single site working arrangements should continue.
In line with the National COVID-19 Aged Care Plan, single site workforce arrangements will remain in in place until there are no cases in residents or staff in residential aged care facilities, and community transmission is considered lower risk for two weeks as reported in the common operating picture. When this occurs, the Department will issue advice alerting providers of this de-escalation and notifying of a two-week transition period to allow for rosters to be adjusted.
This means that current single site arrangements in the ACT will remain in place until this criteria is met, extending beyond the end-dates previously advised (17 September). As the outbreak situation evolves, this advice may change.
Transition out advice will be provided as soon as practicable from these dates. The Department will also provide further advice on when providers in these areas can commence transitioning back to allowing staff to work at multiple sites.
Please continue to monitor this advice and contact the Guiding Principles Support Hub website or hotline on 1800 491 793 for any queries.