Victorian employers have welcomed the State Government’s decision today to remove the requirement for workers to have a second and third Covid vaccination in order to be employed in most sectors.
According to the Victorian Head of the peak employer association Ai Group, Tim Piper, the decision will assist with supply chain issues especially in manufacturing and service sectors.
“We have been pushing government to make this announcement. Many manufacturers, logistics and hospitality businesses are telling us they are losing workers to other sectors and could not get others back to work because of the mandates. The lack of workers was helping to create supply problems and consumers were noticing it through the empty shelves and other products being deleted from ranges,” Mr Piper said
“This decision brings Victoria into line with much of the rest of Australia and is a pragmatic one,” he said.
“Victorian industry badly needs workers back in the factory, office and in service areas. We are being hit by Covid and flu illnesses as well as a lack of numbers, so this decision is one which will be welcomed by all businesses.
Mr Piper said it would also assist many employees to get back to work, with some having held out and been unwilling to receive a Covid jab.
“They have lost many month’s income through this, but employers and the community need them back in the workforce and being positive contributors to our economy.
“The Government has assured us that with the very high rate of Covid vaccinations in Victoria and the rest of the country, we can feel these measures have proven successful and people can return to work without unduly affecting others,” Mr Piper said.
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Tim Piper: 0411 430 301
