News

Health | April 08, 2020

Kealy connects with vulnerable community members

The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy has written to all residents aged 70 and over across her electorate to provide information and reassurance as communities respond to coronavirus.

Ms Kealy said we needed to do everything we could to ensure these residents in particular were kept safe and protected, and that their everyday needs were met.

“Coronavirus could affect people of all ages, but among those most at risk are elderly members of the community, those with compromised immunity, and people with chronic medical conditions,” she said.

"Many older community members don’t have social media networks, or get their news online like so many others do.

“That’s why I’ve individually written to older members of the community to let them know where to get help locally if they need supplies or support, to give them my contact details for assistance if they need it and, most importantly, to let them know we care about them.

“The safety of communities right across western Victoria is my highest priority and I thank each and every person who is doing their bit to stop the spread of coronavirus.”

The Australian Government has strongly urged people over the age of 70 to self-isolate and only leave home if absolutely necessary. This advice applies to 10,458 people aged 70 years and over on the electoral roll for Lowan.

Ms Kealy said she understood there was worry, fear and uncertainty as the community dealt with the extraordinary health, social and economic circumstances.

“We are all facing an uneasy and difficult time, with rapid and extensive changes to many facets of our lives,” she said.

“We need to ensure that we band together to get through this, and that we leave no-one behind.”