COVID-19 

We developed the COVID-19 Management Plan and setup an Incident Command Centre, which meets daily to monitor and respond to the rapidly changing environment. We have provided ongoing staff training for infection control, audit worker hand hygiene procedure and the donning and removing of PPE.

In addition, a Rapid Response Team has been setup. The Rapid Response Team is a carefully selected team that is on standby until the need arrives if we have a positive COVID case. The team have received comprehensive COVID-19 training, including; correct procedure for applying and removing PPE, disposal of waste, management and procedures if a suspected COVID-19 positive situation arises.

Able has implemented strong infection control policies including;

• Social Distancing
• Hand hygiene – as well as conducting audits on this procedure
• Installed automatic hand sanitisers at all Able sites
• Increased cleaning of high touch areas
• N95 and P2 face masks
• Face shields

In line with the recent announcement of the roll out of the COVID-19 booster vaccination, Able Australia is also currently organising for its clients living in our supported homes to receive their COVID-19 booster vaccination.

Yes, Able has been continuously procuring PPE for staff and clients including;

• 950,000+ masks for the disability sector.
• 24 litres of locally sourced hand sanitiser.
• 400 protective gowns sewn by a team of Able volunteers.
• 400+ face shields produced in Melbourne.

Able is doing everything we can to source Rapid Antigen Tests, although like much of the rest of the country is finding, this is proving to be challenging.

No, clients are not required to wear face masks inside their homes or Able accommodation however, some clients may choose to wear a face mask.

If a client is outside of their residence then they do not have to wear a face mask. Please refer to the mask exception rules for each state and territory:

• ACT
• Queensland
• Tasmania
• Victoria

Able Australia is currently organising for its clients living in our supported homes to receive their COVID-19 booster vaccination.

Whilst the pandemic has been extremely challenging for our clients, they are in good spirits. The environment has enabled clients to learn how to use assistive technology for the first time. This has been a fantastic opportunity for clients to connect with family and friends outside of their home whilst building their confidence.

Clients are connecting with those in their home and outside via Able’s Zoom baking sessions which have been a hit.