É«ÀÇÉçÇø

É«ÀÇÉçÇøLodges Dispute over Consultation on Mandatory Vaccination for Health Staff

  1 September 2021

There have been a number of announcements over the last week about mandatory vaccinations for various groups including disability workers, aged care workers, school based staff and health.

As you would be aware, mandatory covid vaccination for health workers, including the Ministry, was announced on 26 August.  The Public Health Order, making this law, has now been published.

The É«ÀÇÉçÇøcannot provide health advice to members and recommends everyone seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health care professional about the vaccine and your individual circumstances.

É«ÀÇÉçÇøLodges Dispute – Lack of Genuine Consultation before Implementation

Following the announcement of mandatory vaccination for health workers, which captures Ministry staff, the É«ÀÇÉçÇøraised the need for consultation directly with senior Department representatives.  There was no consultation prior to the announcement around how the legal requirements outlined in the Public Health Order will be implemented, what additional support is available, or information on how the Government will prioritise access for Ministry of Health staff to be vaccinated.

The É«ÀÇÉçÇøhas lodged a dispute in the Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) seeking their assistance to ensure immediate and genuine consultation, prior to implementation, on how the Ministry of Health will put this law into practice including:

1. What process will be in place for those that are unable to access vaccination, particularly in the LGAs of concern
2. How they are supporting Ministry staff to be prioritised for and access vaccination
3. What process and additional safety measures will be put in place for those with medical contraindication

A compulsory conference at the IRC has been set for 7 September.  The É«ÀÇÉçÇøhas sought that all pressure and direction for staff to be vaccinated, the vast majority of whom remain working from home, should be halted while the Ministry engages in meaningful and genuine consultation with the Association.

The É«ÀÇÉçÇøwill report back to members as the dispute progresses.

É«ÀÇÉçÇøWon Vaccination Leave and Covid Special Leave

Don’t forget the É«ÀÇÉçÇøwon two (2) hours vaccination leave you can use to attend your appointment.

We also suggest you refresh yourself on the É«ÀÇÉçÇøwon arrangements.

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