Press Release from Daniel Andrews office on the formation of a dedicated agency to manage Quarantine – “COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria (CQV)” headed by Corrections Commissioner Emma Cassar.
“A STRONGER QUARANTINE PROGRAM TO PROTECT WHAT WE’VE BUILT”
“The Victorian Government has unveiled a new, stronger quarantine program and a dedicated agency to oversee it enabling Victorians and visitors to safely start returning from overseas.
As part of the Government’s response to the interim report of the Hotel Quarantine Inquiry, Premier Daniel Andrews and Minister for Police and Emergency Services Lisa Neville today launched the new body and program– which has been overhauled following a root-and-branch review of the original program.
Significant changes have been made to strengthen leadership, oversight and training, embed public health and enforcement expertise, and tighten obligations for both staff and residents – to keep them and the community safe.
A dedicated agency, COVID-19 Quarantine Victoria (CQV), has been established to oversee all elements of the program – including the Frontline Worker Accommodation program (formerly known as Hotels for Heroes), mandatory quarantine for people entering Australia including Health Hotels for positive and suspected cases or close contacts, and Emergency Accommodation for local residents who need a safe place to quarantine.
It will be led by Corrections Commissioner Emma Cassar, who has been appointed as interim Commissioner of CQV and will report directly to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services.”
“Unless there are medical, mental health or compassionate reasons, residents will no longer be able to leave their rooms while isolating or quarantining, including for fresh air or exercise breaks. Food and care packages from family and friends will no longer be permitted, with deliveries only accepted from accredited food services.”
