Racing Victoria (RV) wishes to advise of a change to the biosecurity protocols in place in Victoria to allow for the safe continuation of racing and training during the COVID pandemic.
The protocols serve to protect the health of industry staff, participants and the wider Victorian community; maintain 25,000 full-time equivalent jobs; and ensure daily care and exercise can be afforded to all thoroughbred racehorses.
This change to industry protocols comes following changes announced by the Victorian Government.
Red Zone Entry Requirements
The Victorian Government announced changes on 15 October 2021 to the requirements for fully vaccinated people entering Victoria from red zones, noting that the requirement to first obtain a Government travel permit still remains.
Under the changes, which take effect at 11.59pm (AEDT) on 19 October 2021, fully vaccinated people entering Victoria from red zones will need a negative result from a test taken no more than 72 hours prior to entry. Once they enter on an approved permit, they must isolate, get tested again within 72 hours, and stay isolated until they get a negative result.
In making this announcement, the Government has stated that people entering Victoria from red zones who aren’t fully vaccinated – including those with medical exemptions – must continue to quarantine for 14 days.
RV has determined that, before entry will be permitted to a licensed premises or racecourse for any fully vaccinated licensed, registered or permitted person entering Victoria from a red zone, they must provide a negative day six test and then receive clearance from RV Stewards.
This updated protocol, which will take effect from 11.59pm (AEDT) on 19 October 2021, is in addition to the Victorian Government requirements and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by RV.
Licensed, registered or permitted persons granted a permit, exemption or exception to enter Victoria from a red zone are required to email crisismanagement@racingvictoria.net.au or call the RV Stewards and advise accordingly prior to their arrival within the state.