Mandurah's ageing population, a low socio-economic demographics and a high proportion of workers in the service and tourism industries means Mandurah is likely to feel the impact of COVID-19 heavily.
Mandurah mayor Rhys Williams says the region has a community "very vulnerable" to the spread of the virus and residents should "urgently take this really seriously."
But he stressed that these vulnerable people would be looked after.
"It's crucial right now that people who are vulnerable in the community know there is a plan to support them," he said in an interview with the Mandurah Mail.
The City of Mandurah has put together a pandemic plan that supports all people in the community that are vulnerable - not just to getting ill from COVID-19 but also those impacted by a loss of income.
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The plan includes a call centre to check in on disadvantaged Mandurah residents, coordinating services being offered by other community groups and promoting community spirit.
"It's been incredible to see the response from the community in trying to help," mayor Williams said.
"We just need to make sure this is coordinated so that people aren't missed and others aren't over-serviced."
The council hopes to collaborate with every Mandurah residents' association, church group, non-profit and school to coordinate delivery of charity services.
The final part of the council's plan is promoting community spirit and encouraging residents to continue to be good neighbours and look out for each other.
The Mandurah Mail will be working with the City of Mandurah to share the stories of neighbours lending a hand. If you have a story to share, we want to hear from you.
Email editor@mandurahmail.com.au to share the good word.
Daniela Cooper
Daniela has returned to her first love after a decade of working in local, state and federal governments, non-profits and the corporate world. She has a passion for injustice; to be a voice for those who don't have one; to hold power to account; and to bring readers the news without fear. She loves to explore new places and unfamiliar topics (both in her professional and private life) but her go-to loves are travel, health, social justice, foreign affairs and the outdoors. Email daniela.cooper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Daniela has returned to her first love after a decade of working in local, state and federal governments, non-profits and the corporate world. She has a passion for injustice; to be a voice for those who don't have one; to hold power to account; and to bring readers the news without fear. She loves to explore new places and unfamiliar topics (both in her professional and private life) but her go-to loves are travel, health, social justice, foreign affairs and the outdoors. Email daniela.cooper@austcommunitymedia.com.au
