Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Coronavirus is a group of viruses that normally cause mild illness with symptoms similar to a common cold. In December 2019, a new strain of coronavirus was discovered called COVID-19. This strain is highly contagious and can cause serious illness and even death in people considered ‘high risk’. COVID-19 has created an unprecedented crisis for our health and economy. Workers are facing enormous challenges including job insecurity and serious health risks. As we all do our bit to contain the pandemic, Australian Unions are fighting to protect the rights, safety and livelihoods of all workers. In this section you will find information on how COVID-19 effects working life and how you can protect your rights at work.
JobKeeper Payment
The Federal Government introduced JobKeeper after a hard-fought campaign from the Australian union movement. On March 28, 2021, the Government ended the JobKeeper program, despite many parts of the economy being a long way from recovery.
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/jobkeeper-payment/
Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment
The Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment, originally scheduled to end on September 30, has been extended by the Government for an unspecified period.
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/pandemic-leave/
Testing for COVID-19
Work health and safety information about testing for COVID-19
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/testing-for-covid-19/
Ventilation
Workplace health and safety information about ventilation and COVID-19.
Understanding COVID-19 risks in your workplace
Workplace health and safety information about physical distancing and ventilation
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/covid-workplace-risks/
Transport to and from work
Work health and safety information about managing the risk of COVID-19 and transport and from work.
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/transport-to-and-from-work/
Consulting Workers
Workplace health and safety information about managing the risk of COVID-19 in the workplace and consulting workers.
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/consulting-workers/
Privacy at Work
Workplace health and safety information about privacy at work and COVID-19
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/privacy-at-work/
Safety Gear (PPE)
Workplace health and safety information about managing the risk of COVID-19 and safety gear/personal protective equipment.
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/safety-gear-ppe/
Workplace cleanliness and hygiene
Workplace health and safety information about managing the risk of COVID-19 and workplace cleanliness and hygiene
https://www.australianunions.org.au/factsheet/workplace-cleanliness-and-hygiene/