Victoria and NSW to shut all but essential services

Victoria will join NSW in shutting down all non-essential activity across the state to combat the spread of coronavirus.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says school holidays will be brought forward to start tomorrow.

The step comes as the number of Covid-19 cases in Victoria has risen to 296, after 67 people were confirmed as being infected on Saturday.

‘‘This is not something that we do lightly, but it’s clear that if we don’t take this step, more Victorians will contract coronavirus, our hospitals will be overwhelmed and more Victorians will die,’’ Andrews said in a statement.

‘‘Victorians will still be able to go to the supermarket, the bank, the pharmacy and other essential stores, like petrol stations and convenience stores.’’

He said freight, logisitics and home delivery were also considered essential and would remain open.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced earlier yesterday her state would undertake a ‘‘comprehensive shutdown’’ of non-essential services, with supermarkets, petrol stations and pharmacies among businesses to stay open.

The developments come as food packages are set to be distributed to Victorians in mandatory self-isolation, who don’t have friends and family who can readily help them get supplies.

The state government will start distributing two weeks worth of food to eligible households with little or nothing in their pantries from today.

‘‘I’m encouraging people to look elsewhere ... but this is very much for those who are isolated and very much need our support,’’ Disability, Ageing and Carers Ministers Luke Donnellan told reporters yesterday.

About 10,000 households are expected to need the packages, but more will be provided if needed.

The packages will contain items such as long-life milk, pasta, cereal, canned vegetables and sugar.

Personal care packages containing soap, toothpaste and deodorants will also be available for eligible households, while some other items – such as nappies and baby formula – may be sent to homes that need them.

The programme is being run by the Red Cross, in partnership with Foodbank Victoria, under the direction of the State Relief Co-ordinator.