On this tough day for Victorians, the peak bodies for workers and business – Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC), Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and Australian Industry Group (Victoria) – are jointly calling on all workers to stay at home if you’re sick, and wear a mask when you leave home.
We acknowledge the difficult news that the number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 has again increased overnight. We send our condolences to the families and friends of all who have lost their lives to COVID-19.
We must work together to ensure that Victoria comes out of this stronger.
We urge people in need to access the government assistance available, including a $300 payment, accessible after you’ve been tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting results. You can access a $1500 payment if you are directed to quarantine/self-isolate as a result of receiving a positive COVID-19 test result. Please call the COVID-19 hotline on 1800 675 398 to apply for this payment.
Additional assistance is available to business at this time also.
Workplace transmission of coronavirus is the biggest challenge faced in Victoria, with four-in-five new cases being traced via workplaces.
If you need support, please contact your peak body or your union.
Quotes attributable to VTHC Secretary, Luke Hilakari:
“It’s another tough day for workers in Victoria. We urge anyone who gets sick to get tested, don’t delay, get tested right away and then go home. If you need workplace support, contact your union.”
“The Young Workers Centre and Migrant Workers Centre at Trades Hall are also available and ready to assist those in need.”
Quotes attributable to VCCI CEO, Paul Guerra:
“We all need to get this outbreak in Victoria under control, and the only way we are going to do that is by following the rules. That means staying home when you are unwell, getting tested and waiting till you get a negative result before leaving isolation. The rules are clear and they will save lives. Our businesses, livelihoods, families and communities all depend on each of us playing our part.”
Quotes attributable to Ai Group Head - Victoria, Tim Piper:
“The responsibility is on us all to do the right thing. Everybody – employers, employees, self-employed, sub-contractors and others – should not go to work if you are unwell. Get tested and remain isolated until you’ve got the test back. It’s as simple and basic as that! We are here to offer guidance if there is uncertainty.”
