Unions
Unions call for unlimited paid pandemic leave
Australian Unions are calling on the Morrison Government to provide paid pandemic leave for all workers at full pay, regardless of how many times they may need it.
The call comes in the context of a rise in infections – particularly the recent surges in Victoria – as well as the looming threat of a second wage.
Australian Unions secretary Sally McManus said that there is an urgent need for the reform, noting that “insecure low paid workers are more likely to avoid testing because they are scared of losing their job and being left with nothing” without the leave guarantee.
“We may be living with this pandemic for a long time. This means we need to change our attitudes and temporarily change our laws”.
“Paid pandemic leave costs are a drop in the ocean compared to ongoing lockdowns,” Ms McManus added.
Unions are also calling for protections for workers who are required to self-isolate due to COVID-19 testing or contracting the disease, including protections against dismissal during the self-isolation period.
Be part of the campaign for paid pandemic leave by joining NSW’s largest union, the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association today. You can join here.