Coronavirus in Ballarat: More lockdown questions answered

While we aren't in one of the metropolitan locked-down areas, there are still some restrictions here. The lockdown zone begins, on the western edge, at the City of Melton.

Remember, use common sense, practice social distancing, and wash your hands frequently to prevent infections.

Anyone with symptoms, however mild, is urged to get tested immediately.

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In Ballarat, we can have up to five people inside a home, apart from the residents, and gatherings of up to 10 people outside.

Restaurants, bars, cafes, and other businesses can have no more than 20 people inside a space at once - this also includes community facilities like libraries and swimming pools.

The one person per four square metre rule still applies.

A tweet from the Department of Health and Human Services makes clear exactly what's allowed if your partner is in the lockdown zone.

"You may see your partner, however Victorians are under Stay at Home restrictions. (For example) if you live in Altona and you visit your partner at their home in Ballarat, you are not permitted to go out for dinner or a drink in Ballarat," the tweet states.

Students have returned to school for face-to-face learning in Ballarat this week, as part of a normal beginning to term three.

In the lockdown zone, the rules are different - only students in year 11 and 12, or year 10 students studying a VCE subject, can return to school, as well as specialist school students.

There will also be a week of student-free days this week in the lockdown zone to allow teachers to prepare.

The premier said there would be irregularities, for example if a student lived in the lockdown zone but their school was outside the zone.

It's understood people who live outside the lockdown zone can still go to work if their job is essential inside the lockdown zone, and vice versa.

READ MORE: Coronavirus in Ballarat: Melbourne workers urged to consider travel

People can also travel across the state through the lockdown zone if they do not stop in the zone.

Police will also monitor train travel during the six-week lockdown period, according to a tweet from V/Line.

"Police are currently checking random services across the entire public transport network to ensure Victorians are complying with the need to travel restrictions," the tweet states.

Police and Australian Defence Force personnel will be maintaining border checkpoints, including on the freeway.

The state government has recommended face masks be worn in the lockdown zone while people cannot adequately social distance - for example, if they're heading to the supermarket or need to take public transport.

READ MORE: Coronavirus in Ballarat: Is it really time for a COVID-19 face mask?

However, it's not mandatory to wear them.

City of Ballarat mayor Ben Taylor and chief executive Janet Dore have encouraged people to consider wearing masks to keep themselves and others safe while in public.

Victorian chief health officer Dr Brett Sutton said on Monday he would "make (wearing a mask) a recommendation for anyone in our Melbourne and Mitchell Shire areas. And a consideration for anyone outside of that if, if they're vulnerable, going into a setting where they're concerned".

The state government announced a new youth mental health "online platform" that will begin rolling out in suburban Melbourne.

Millions of dollars in additional funding for existing services like Lifeline and BeyondBlue were also announced.

If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help available - phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636.

Remember to head outside for exercise, and catch up with friends and loved ones over the phone or online.

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There are plenty more answers on the DHHS coronavirus website, or you think you may have the virus, you should phone the coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398.

Remember, people in the lockdown zones can only leave their homes for four reasons - work and study if they cannot do so from home, buying essential supplies, exercising within the lockdown zone, and care or caregiving.

If you still can't find what you're looking for, ask us below, and we'll do our best to find out more.

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