Intereach reopening in a COVID-safe way

Community service provider Intereach is continuing an adaptive approach to its operations in a changing COVID-19 world.

CEO Yvette Buhagiar said many of the Intereach offices have reopened, though there are still restrictions to ensure the health and safety of all staff and participants remains protected.

“We will continue to operate in an era of changing circumstances across our 17 office locations depending on each town’s present lockdown status. However, it is not yet ‘business as usual’ and we still have staff working from home,” Ms Buhagiar said.

With the easing of lockdown restrictions across most of regional Victoria and the Murrumbidgee area of NSW, most Intereach offices have reopened to the public with the exception of Albury.

However, Ms Buhagiar said anyone attending an Intereach office needs to be aware of some changes which are in place under its COVID-safe plan.

“When you arrive at one of our offices you need to ring the doorbell and will be required to sign in using the QR codes provided or seek assistance if necessary. Wearing a face mask in our offices is mandatory unless you have a legal or medical exemption,” she said.

Ms Buhagiar said Intereach encourages participants to continue using phone or video technology appointments where possible.

“Face to face meetings will be the exception at this stage and should be pre-arranged with staff,” she said.

He added no one should attempt to enter any Intereach building if you are:

• Feeling unwell or have any cold/flu symptoms;
• Are not wearing a face mask (unless you have a legally exempt reason);

Or in the past 14 days you have:

• Tested positive or are awaiting results for COVID-19;
• Been in close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19; or
• Travelled to or been in contact with anyone who has travelled to an identified COVID-19 hotspot.

“We encourage everyone to get their vaccinations so we can all work towards the adjustments that will be required as we learn to live with COVID. I would like to thank everyone for their cooperation in helping to keep our communities safe,” Ms Buhagiar said.

Intereach offices are open from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) and are located across the Riverina/Murray regions of NSW, northern/central Victoria and the Mallee. Intereach supports children and families, older people, people living with disability, mental health and carers. If you, or someone you know, needs support you can contact the toll-free number 1300 488 226, or go to www.intereach.com.au.