Woolworths updates mask policy for Melbourne and Mitchell Shire stores
Supermarket giant Woolworths will expect customers shopping in its Melbourne or Mitchell Shire stores to wear a face mask from tomorrow.
A Woolworths spokesperson confirmed to 9News.com.au the supermarket had updated its policy to be consistent with government messaging on face coverings.
"The safety and wellbeing of our customers and team members is our top priority," the spokesperson said.
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Woolworths has updated its policy to be more consistent with government messaging. Woolworths/Supplied
"From tomorrow (Thursday), we expect every customer entering our stores in Melbourne and Mitchell Shire to wear a face-covering as per the Government's directive.
"This policy has been agreed upon through the Supermarket's Taskforce and is consistent with other major retailers."
Face masks have been readily available to Woolworths employees around the country since April.
READ MORE: Should Australians be wearing masks? Experts speak on COVID-19 prevention
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews enters the press conference wearing a face mask on July 20, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia. Quinn Rooney/Getty Images
It's understood staff members will not be blocking customers who choose not to wear a mask from entering, but police and security will be notified.
The supermarket will encourage shoppers who can't wear a mask due to medical reasons to make use of the grocer's community pick-up or home delivery options.
As of 11:59pm today, residents in Melbourne and Mitchell Shire over the age of 12 will be required by law to wear a face covering when they leave their home.
Fines of $200 may be issued to people who choose not to wear a mask outside and who do not have a valid medical exemption.
You can get up-to-date information from the Federal Government's Coronavirus Australia app, available on the App Store, Google Play and the Government's WhatsApp channel.
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