Australia COVID-19 Employer Resources
With all Australian states having multiple weeks without COVID cases, restrictions have been getting less and less with sporting and cultural events going ahead with the registration of attendance (for tracing) and some level of social distance (restricted seating). Interstate travel is opening up with a new government initiative for half-price airline tickets which are cross-subsidized by the government to repair the airline and travel/local tourism industries.
The rollout of vaccines for the most ‘At Risk’ sector of the population was bought forward from late February to early March with the first wave of vaccinations now in full swing. First to get the jab are public health workers (and those involved in quarantine or other COVID practices), those with specific health issues, and those over 70.
Refer to this document to understand the government’s rollout strategy. The government runs the entire program at no cost to individuals, and there is no role for an employer to play regarding the COVID-19 vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccine considerations for Australia
- Can employers mandate the vaccine?
No - Who will control delivery of the vaccine?
Public health service - Who covers the cost of the vaccine?
Government - Where will people get vaccinated?
Specified hospitals and health centers - Is there cultural resistance to getting the vaccine?
No
There have been much lower instances and deaths in Australia than in other parts of the world, with 909 deaths (mostly in Victoria). There was an initial lockdown in March and April during the first spike, but this bought things very much under control with businesses and communities able to return to workspaces, public transportation, and group functions, but with tight protocols on the number of people (to adhere to social distancing), mask-wearing and hygiene. The government’s health advice continues to encourage working from home when possible. Because of this, a number of large businesses with this capability are still promoting full-time work from home or rotation of staff for physically coming to the office.
More Information
Australian Government Department of Health
Coronavirus and Australian Workplace Laws
More statistics and news on Australia and COVID-19
This information is provided by CA Financial Services Group, Asinta's partner in Australia.
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Page last modified: March 14, 2021
The information presented on this site is current as of the date initially posted; and, because matters related to COVID-19, the vaccine, and compliance measures are changing so quickly, it may not be current as of the date you read it. While the information gathered here is from Asinta global partners who are subject matter experts in their respective fields, this information is not meant to be a substitute for individual legal or medical advice, or as a substitute for advice in your specific situation.