The NSW Government must make the new test and isolate payment available to workers across the state, the Australian Manufacturing Workers’ Union NSW & ACT (AMWU) says.
The union welcomes the introduction of a test and isolate payment. Paying people to stay home is a key defence against COVID-19.
But, given the entirety of the state is now in lockdown, it makes no sense that access has been restricted solely to workers in the local government areas of concern.
There are workers across the state who are spending days waiting on their COVID test results. They deserve support so they can stay home and prevent the spread of the virus in workplaces.
Read more on what the state and federal governments can do to support workers and communities in our 8-point plan: https://www.amwu.org.au/8_steps_to_protect_nsw_essential_workers
Quotes attributable to Robyn Fortescue – Acting State Secretary - AMWU NSW & ACT
“As we said last week, no worker should be forced to choose between losing income and potentially putting others at risk of contracting the virus. COVID is not confined to the local government areas of concern, and the financial support shouldn’t be either.”
“Workers in regions such as the Hunter are having to wait for several days to get their COVID test results. Without financial support to assist them during this period, workers may be discouraged from doing the right thing and getting tested.”
Media contact – Sophia Morris – 0400 889 166 or [email protected]