Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

covid19-restriction-checker: COVID-19 Restriction Checker

Face masks – Victoria

Updated on 20 October 2022, at 14:25 AET

Current Restrictions

It is recommended you wear a mask if:

  • you have COVID-19 or are a close contact and you need to leave your home or accommodation, for at least 7 days
  • you’re caring for someone with COVID-19
  • you have COVID-19 symptoms
  • you’re visiting or working in a hospital or care facilities
  • you’re at high risk of illness or are with people who may be vulnerable to COVID-19

Exceptions

Exceptions to wearing a face mask include if:

  • you're under 8 years of age
  • you have a medical condition that makes wearing a face mask unsuitable
  • you can’t do your job while wearing a face mask
  • communication is difficult, such as for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
  • you’re in an emergency situation
  • you’re working alone indoors — but if another person enters the same space, you must put your mask back on
  • you’re visiting a person you are in an intimate personal relationship with
  • when doing strenuous physical exercise such as running or cycling
  • when required or authorised by law

Children aged 2 years or younger must not wear a face mask, because they’re a choking and suffocation risk.

You don’t need a medical certificate stating that you have a lawful reason for not wearing a face mask. If you have a lawful reason for not wearing a face mask, you don’t need to apply for an exemption or permit.

If you’re stopped by police in a setting where masks are mandatory, they’ll ask you to confirm the lawful reason you’re not wearing a face mask.

For more information on restrictions in Victoria, visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au.

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.