Covid-19 cleaning blitz hits Cardinia

Extra cleaners will be deployed across Cardinia under a State Government initiative. 138931_12

By Mitchell Clarke

Extra cleaners will be deployed to the streets of Cardinia shire, under a four-week blitz to build public confidence and slow the spread of Covid-19 in the community.

In an attempt to boost local jobs, the State Government announced 1500 short-term positions will be created to clean public infrastructure, retail centres and shopping strips.

Employed workers will also disinfect and wipe down external surfaces such as street benches, handrails and door handles, traffic light buttons, poles, bicycle stands and bins.

Jobs Minister Martin Pakula said although the initiative provided some much needed employment, it also helped to build community confidence as the staged lifting of restrictions begins.

“This blitz provides immediate work and wages to people who need it most, so they can pay the bills while they search for more permanent positions,” Mr Pakula said.

“We’re taking the first cautious steps when it comes to easing restrictions, and the jobs that will be done as part of this program are an important part of that process.”

The cleaning blitz is part of the $500 million Working for Victoria initiative, which was created to link jobseekers with work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Almost 3,000 people have found positions since the program was launched last month.

The Gazette understands the State Government have been working closely with Cardinia Shire Council and Casey Council to prioritise local areas in most need of cleaning.

Local Government Minister Adem Somyurek said the positions will be spread across 10 regional and 26 suburban communities.

“Local councils have a vital role to play in supporting communities as we look cautiously to the other side of the pandemic,” Mr Somyurek explained.

“That’s why we’re working with them to pinpoint the right areas for this cleaning blitz.”

The first successful batch of employees have begun work and advertising for the remaining jobs will continue until all positions are filled.

For more information on Working for Victoria and to register, go to vic.gov.au/workingforvictoria.