What if Hindmarsh Shire Council becomes a COVID-19 Hotspot?

Published on 13 December 2021

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Recently Hindmarsh Shire Council Officers, the Wimmera Emergency Management Team Coordinator, and a representative from the Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing (DFFH) delivered an online presentation outlining the preparations and contingencies in the event that Hindmarsh Shire Council becomes a COVID-19 hotspot.

John Hutchins, Wimmera Emergency Management Team Coordinator, outlined the structures in place for the preparation and management of emergencies across an array of government departments. John also outlined the improved understanding on how emergencies would be managed during a natural disaster with the COVID-19 pandemic currently being experienced.

In managing COVID-19 the reciprocal partnership between ongoing business responsibilities and council support is of utmost importance. As businesses are now largely going to self-manage COVID-19 exposures it is imperative that all business consider their COVIDSafe plan, and ensure all staff understand COVIDSafe practices.

Advice and guidance on COVIDSafe practices and business operations during an outbreak, is offered by contacting the Hindmarsh Shire’s Business Concierge service. Additionally, free and confidential COVIDSafe plan reviews are available from Ernst & Young.

Hindmarsh Shire Council Mayor, Cr Melanie Albrecht said “COVID-19 has reached our Shire. If you are a business owner in Hindmarsh, it is important to understand the recent government changes to COVID-19 rules and the legal requirements you have in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak in your business.”

Council thanks Wimmera Emergency Management Coordinator, John Hutchins, DFFH Area of Operations Coordinator, Mathew Chamberlain, for their time and effort in organising and presenting.  

Documents for community members and business owners who were unable to attend these sessions are available on the Hindmarsh Shire Council website. These include:

  • Presentation slideshow
  • Questions and answers
  • Confirmed case of COVID-19 in the workplace procedure
  • Changes to isolation requirements statement


For more information, please contact Emma Ussing, Business Concierge and Hospitality Support Officer on 03 5391 4444, 0429 406 709 or email eussing@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.


Greg Wood
Chief Executive Officer