Schools in Melbourne and Mitchell Shire are to be the first priority areas to receive reusable face masks in the coming weeks.
In a statement, Premier Daniel Andrews said the State had placed orders for 1.37 million reusable fabric masks from five Victorian manufacturers.
“These orders will be delivered across July and August,” Mr Andrews said.
“The Department of Education and Training will be one of the first to receive the reusable masks and will provide them to students if they are unable to access one from home,” he said.
“However, it is expected most students will provide their own face covering and mask.”
Mr Andrews said that as of yesterday (23 July) all students aged 12 and over and staff who were attending school in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire were required to wear a face covering or mask when at school.
“Reusable masks will also be available for staff and will be provided to both government and non-government schools,” he said.
He also announced a new COVID-19 rule, with people living in metropolitan Melbourne and Mitchell Shire now required to wear a face covering when leaving home.
Mr Andrews said the new rule had been in effect since Wednesday, 22 July.
“By covering our faces, we’re protecting ourselves, our families and every single Victorian.”
“So please – just as you remember your house keys, please remember something to cover your face,” Mr Andrews said.
