The ASU is by your side every step of the way - this information is for ASU members and covers health and safety, employer obligations, leave provisions and Workers Compensation.
Download the full COVID-19 factsheet for ASU members here. Updated 19 March.
WHAT IS COVID-19?
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a virus in the same family as the common cold. According to Australia’s Health Department, people with coronavirus may experience fever, flu-like symptoms and shortness of breath.
EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND SAFETY
COVID-19 is a health and safety risk for employees. Employers have obligations to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of employees and others.
To find out more about the obligations employers have, download our full COVID-19 factsheet for ASU members.
LEAVE ENTITLEMENTS
Full and part-time employees who can’t come to work because they are diagnosed with COVID-19 can take paid personal/carer’s leave.
Casual employees and independent contractors do not receive pay when they are not at work including when they are sick.
Employers should therefore consider specific measures to support casual employees and other insecure employees who are impacted by COVID-19 including the provision of paid “special leave”.
HIGH-RISK EMPLOYEES
Some older employees, or employees with immune suppression disorders may be at increased risk of contracting COVID-19. In the event of an outbreak in Australia these employees should carefully consider their need to attend work and take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure.
For all the information about your work and Coronavirus, download the ASU COVID-19 Factsheet.
If you have questions on concerns about your health and safety at work, leave entitlements, harassment and discrimination or any work related issue, don’t hesitate to contact us on 02 9310 4000. You can also book a time for us to call you that is best for you: