Victorians will begin wearing masks as part of their daily lives from 11.59pm on Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
The introduction of mandatory face coverings was announced by the state government this week to help control the spread of coronavirus.
Who will enforce the wearing of masks?
A Victoria Police spokesperson said police will be able to issue on the spot fines for people not wearing masks without a legitimate reason.
"Police will enforce the new Chief Health Officer direction that requires people living in regional Victoria to wear a face covering when leaving home for one of the four approved reasons," the spokesperson said.
"As part of daily patrols, police will be able to issue on-the-spot fines of $200 to those not wearing a face covering without a legitimate reason. This is a critical measure designed to reduce the spread of coronavirus."
Read more:
Where do I have to wear my mask?
Face coverings will be required in all public areas as well as when people have visitors including tradespeople, family and friends to their home.
Masks must be worn by people watching community sport. Spectators should also not gather in groups larger than 10 people and keep at least 1.5 metres between themselves and others.
"If you have coronavirus, face coverings stop you spreading it. If you are well, face coverings protect you from getting coronavirus," the DHHS website reads.
"Wearing a face covering is a small action that will make a big difference to slowing the spread of coronavirus in Victoria, saving lives and getting us back to enjoying the activities we all miss so much.
"One of the many challenges of (COVID-19) is that some people may develop symptoms later or not realise they have it. Wearing a face covering means these people are far less likely to spread the virus to other people."
Read more:
When can I not wear a mask?
Lawful exceptions for not wearing a face covering including illnesses or conditions that make wearing a covering unsuitable, doing strenuous exercise or competitive sport where you are out of breath or puffing or if a face mask makes you unable to do your job.
What about children?
Children under the age of 12 are not expected to wear a mask. Children under two should not wear a mask as they are considered a choking hazard. Primary school students aged 12 and over do not need to wear a face covering while attending school.
People can remove their masks while eating or drinking in public.
For more information on the rules around wearing masks in Victoria, visit the DHHS website.
We have removed our paywall from this story about the coronavirus. This is a rapidly changing situation and we want to make sure our readers are as informed as possible. If you would like to support our journalists, subscribe here.
