Mandatory isolation for COVID-positive cases will end on October 14, following a decision by National Cabinet.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said National Cabinet had also agreed to end the Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment effective the same date.
“To protect the most vulnerable and those in high-risk settings, the National Cabinet agreed to continue targeted financial support for casual workers, on the same basis as the PLDP, for workers in aged care, disability care, aboriginal healthcare and hospital care sectors,” he said.
“The new payment will be funded 50:50 between the Commonwealth and States and Territories, with final details including eligibility and compliance to be released by Services Australia.”
The arrangements will be reviewed at the December meeting of National Cabinet.
The Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer provided an update on the COVID-19 pandemic, while First Ministers discussed a nationally consistent approach to transition Australia’s COVID-19 response on the basis of the following principles:
- minimising the level of severe COVID-19 and death, including through ensuring measures are effective, proportionate and targeted wherever possible for the most vulnerable and at risk populations;
- ensuring the health, economic and social systems as a whole have the capacity and capability to respond to future waves;
- promoting and creating an environment that mitigates pandemic fatigue and generates self-reliance, resilience and capacity building which reduces the reliance on government interventions;
- continue to promote the importance of vaccinations, including boosters, to improve health outcomes;
- supporting the economic and social well-being of those living in Australia; and
- returning funding and policy efforts to a more sustainable footing, including for business and individual supports, aged care and health funding.
The State Government said while mandatory isolation has ended, anyone who is COVID-19 positive or experiencing symptoms is strongly encouraged to stay home until they have recovered.
Other rules may apply to high-risk setting, including private hospitals, aged care and disability care facilities. See CCIWA’s COVID-19 FAQs for more information.
The Government said people should continue with healthy hygiene habits, including:
- Washing or sanitising hands regularly
- Wearing masks if required, if unwell, or if in crowded indoor spaces where you cannot physically distance
- Staying up to date with vaccinations
- Testing for COVID-19 if experiencing symptoms and staying home until symptoms resolve
CCIWA Chief Economist Aaron Morey said the end of mandatory isolation will make it easier for businesses to manage their staff.
“We welcome the country moving forward as COVID passes as a concern,” he said.
Our Employee Relations Advice Centre is also available to respond to your questions on (08) 9365 7660, or via [email protected].
