A reminder again how quickly things can develop during this pandemic. To keep our members informed, SIV has provided a summary of state and Federal support available to industry with links to key information. Please appreciate that this is a rapidly evolving situation so the information contained is based on what is current and will be updated as more information is released.
COVID-19 Update - Sensible winter setting to keep Victorians safe The Acting Chief Health Officer has provided advice that while some key measures can be safely lifted, others should remain until the end of winter. From 11.59pm Friday 24 Junechanges to the Pandemic Orders come into effect:
Masks must still be worn on public transport, taxis, ride shares, and planes, but will no longer be required at airports. Masks are also still required in sensitive settings such as hospitals and care facilities.
Positive cases must still isolate for seven days from the day they took their test but may now leave home to drive a household member directly to or from education or work without leaving their vehicle. They can also leave home to get medical care, a COVID-19 test, or in an emergency, including the risk of harm.
To protect the most vulnerable during winter, three COVID-19 vaccine doses are still required for workers in residential aged care and disability care, healthcare, and custodial and emergency services, including police.
Government imposed third dose mandates in education, food distribution, meat and seafood processing and quarantine accommodation sectors will be lifted.
Rules requiring general workers to work from home unless they are double-vaccinated are lifted. Employers can consider setting COVID-19 vaccination policies as part of their own workplace conditions.
More information will be published after the orders come into effect at 11.59pm on Friday 24 June on coronavirus.vic.gov.au or you can call the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15. Important information for businesses Every business has an important role to play. It’s critical for businesses and industry to continue to be COVIDSafe and comply with restrictions.
The Victorian Government is offering a free support service for small to medium businesses to ensure your COVIDSafe Plan is up to date and reflects current COVIDSafe Settings. To attend one of the information forums, email covidsafeplanreview@ecodev.vic.gov.au.
Contact management tool An online tool has been developed to help businesses manage a positive COVID-19 case in the workplace. The tool measures potential exposure risk and provides instant advice on steps to protect workers and customers. Businesses are asked up to six questions. The tool is in addition to information and advice at coronavirus.vic.gov.au/case-workplace.
Contact management information What do businesses need to do?
If a worker tests positive for COVID-19, direct them to stay home and isolate for seven days from the day they were tested. If they used a rapid antigen test, they must report the result to the Department of Health onlineor by calling 1800 675 398.
There is no longer a requirement to notify WorkSafe of a positive case in the workplace. Businesses do not need to inform customers about a positive case or conduct a deep clean of the premises.
Financial and other support for COVID-19 There are a variety of financial support packages for people and businesses impacted by COVID-19 including financial, job and business support.
Stay COVIDSafe Wear your mask correctly – covering your mouth and nose Get tested immediately if you are ill When open, make sure everyone checks in everywhere, every time Update your COVIDSafe Plan Support your workers to get vaccinated when they’re eligible.