The WA Government has introduced a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for the majority of occupations and workforces in WA, to be introduced in a phased approach.
Most freight logistics sector workers (other than border control, port workers and air transport) fall into Group 2 of the named industries and occupations, meaning that workers must have had their first dose of vaccine by 31 December 2021 and the second dose by 31 January 2022.
The WA Government's rationale for including industries and occupations in Group 2 is that they are considered a "workforce deemed necessary to ongoing delivery of critical services to the community."
See more information on the industry and occupation groups: HEREImpact on WA Freight & Logistics Employers:As has occurred in Victoria and NSW, the vaccine mandate will present WA freight logistics employers with workplace relations and employment challenges, as well as issues related to the collection and recording of the vaccination status of employees and contractors.
As indicated in the WA Government's Mandatory Vaccination FAQs, from the date specified in the Directions an unvaccinated employee without an exemption will not be able to access their workplace, and it will be an offence to fail to comply with the Directions without a reasonable excuse, punishable by a fine of up to $20,000 on the employer.
Each employer or person in charge of workplace will need to ensure that employees are vaccinated or exempt from vaccination. Requirements will be placed on the employee in terms of requiring them to comply with the direction not to enter or work at a location if unvaccinated and to provide evidence to an employer of their vaccination status.
Employers will be required to keep records (including copies of the evidence of vaccination) and ensure unvaccinated staff are not permitted to work.
It is an offence for a person to fail, without reasonable excuse, to comply with any of the directions. This is punishable by a fine of up to $20,000 for individuals and $100,000 for bodies corporate.Workplace Impacts Webinar:CTAA is working with our colleagues at Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) to schedule a Webinar for WA freight logistics employers with legal information & advice about the compliance issues to consider, and also:- Privacy Act considerations
- Discrimination Act considerations
- Workplace Relations impacts including dealing with the employment status of employees who refuse to be vaccinated and possible unfair dismissal cases
Further details will be released soon on the date and timing for the Webinar.
Meanwhile, you can express your interest in being alerted to further information about the Webinar by emailing your details to: neil.chambers@ctaction.com.au
Regards,
Neil Chambers, Director
Container Transport Alliance Australia (CTAA) |
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