Aged care workers union uses Rockhampton case to lobby Federal Government on paid COVID-19 leave

The United Workers Union says the case of the nurse continuing to work after becoming ill highlights the need for aged care staff to be given at least two weeks’ special paid leave during the pandemic.

“Aged care workers are on the frontline in this crisis and it is time the Federal Government recognised their sacrifices and addressed their concerns,” United Workers Union aged care national director Carolyn Smith said. “Aged care workers across the country have expressed the need for Special Paid COVID-19 leave to help them stay home if they fear they have symptoms of coronavirus.” “Otherwise workers are left to gamble with their health and the health of the people they care for.”

Ms Smith says the majority of workers have no COVID-19 leave to fall back on, while understaffing means many workers feel forced to go to work, even if they feel unwell. Some operators – including Anglicare – have guaranteed paid leave for staff during the pandemic should they need to self-isolate or test positive. Is the Government likely to say it is not their responsibility – and it is up to operators to foot the bill?