The many consecutive warm days is indeed a reminder that we are in the midst of the summer season.
Message from the Chairperson
While it brings much joy, it’s important to ensure we follow the safety rules while outdoors at the beach, camping or picnics. Please continue to check the VicEmergency website for updated information about emergency information and warnings near you.It is Australia Day week and a time for reflection and discussion. For some, it’s a day celebrated with friends and family or a day where we feel recognised as citizens of this country. For others, 26 January can be a difficult day of mourning and deep pain, in particular for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We need ongoing education, connections and recognition of the rich and long history this country has to offer for each and every one of us, no matter how long we have been here. The VMC’s statement is available here.
And I thank everyone who has had their third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, noting the wait period at state vaccination centres is now three months. I thank the parents and children who have been vaccinated, with 5 to 11 year olds able to be vaccinated and a number of family-friendly vaccination centres across Victoria. My 10 year old son has had his jab and lollipop!
Book at your local GP or pharmacy, or get your third dose or child vaccinated at your nearest state-run vaccination centre by booking online or calling the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 between 8 am and 8 pm, 7 days a week.
I also thank the communities who are taking extra care and measures to ensure your events are COVID-safe and compliant, and appreciate those communities choosing to postpone their events or change to online events.
I express a happy 2022, year of the Tiger to many communities celebrating the Lunar New Year. Whether you host your celebrations online, in person, hybrid or defer – let’s kickstart 2022 on a strong note with the Tiger roaring health, happiness and prosperity to all of us.
Take care and stay safe.
Viv Nguyen AM, Chairperson
Book your third dose vaccine
Getting your third dose of the vaccine now, won’t just protect you. It will help protect your entire family. From the oldest to the youngest, getting your third dose now, means you’ve done everything you can to protect everyone you love from serious illness.Victorians aged 18 or over are eligible to get their vital third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine after three months.
You can get your next dose at a local doctor, pharmacy or find your nearest vaccination centre and walk in.
Find out more at www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au or call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398 and press 0 for an interpreter.
COVID-19 vaccines are available to everyone 5 years and over
COVID-19 vaccines are available for children aged 5 to 11Book at your local GP or pharmacy, or get your child vaccinated at your nearest state-run vaccination centre by booking online or calling the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 between 8 am and 8 pm, 7 days a week.
By vaccinating your children, you can:
- Reduce the spread of COVID-19
- Protect them from getting sick from COVID-19
- Keep schools open, so children can have more face-to-face learning and playtime with their friends.
Some children are already eligible for vaccination, while others will turn 5 during the year. Families should book their children in for vaccination as soon as possible after their fifth birthday.
All parents and guardians should aim to have their children aged 5 years and over vaccinated with one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by the start of Term 1.
Some families have been enquiring about third doses for children. Third doses are only recommended for people aged 18 years and over at this time.
Family-friendly vaccination centres
Children can receive additional support through vaccination centres, specialised centres and hospitals if they have needle distress, a disability, behavioural difficulties or other needs.
You can get your children vaccinated at family-friendly vaccination centres across Victoria.
- Book online or call the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.
- Vaccination information for children and teenagers
Coronavirus hotline
- Coronavirus hotline: 1800 675 398 (24 Hours).
- Interpreting service: If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450.
- Testing locations: Find a testing location near you.
- Triple Zero: Please keep Triple Zero (000) for emergencies only.
- Coronavirus in-language information
MORE:
Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC)
Address: Level 3, 1 Macarthur Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Tel: (03) 9651 5901
Email: contact@vmc.vic.gov.au