February 2nd, 2022Get your third dose

The Victorian Government will again help more nurses, teachers, ambos, police, firefighters and other public sector workers get vaccinated sooner, offering paid time off to make it as easy as possible for them to get their crucial third dose.

Public sector employees can now access up to half a day’s paid time off to get their third dose, as was the arrangement when receiving their first two doses. The Government hopes the move encourages other employers to consider similar incentives, which will assist more Victorians to access their third dose sooner. The arrangements apply to full-time and part-time staff and long-term regular casuals at departments and administrative offices, statutory authorities, government schools, TAFE institutes, police and emergency services, water and land management authorities and other public entities. All public sector workers are strongly encouraged to get their third dose vaccination as soon as they are eligible – with clear data showing a third dose decreases the chances of being hospitalised by up to 90 per cent. The paid time off to get vaccinated applies in addition to accrued sick leave, which can be used if people experience adverse side effects. The program is subject to the usual operational requirements for taking time off and does not displace any more generous arrangements already in place. In addition, the strong recommendation to work from home and study from home for adult education if you can will also remain in place – this will continue to be assessed. Visit coronavirus.vic.gov.au/vaccine for information on vaccine eligibility and Victoria’s vaccination centres, including locations and opening hours. All Victorians are encouraged where possible to book their vaccination appointment by visiting portal.cvms.vic.gov.au or by phoning the Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398. Minister for Industrial Relations Tim Pallas said: “It’s never been easier to get your third dose, and it’s one of the most important things you can do to drive our COVID-19 numbers down and protect your loved ones.” “I strongly encourage all Victorian employers to put in place similar arrangements, including the private sector, so their workers are supported to access their third dose vaccination as soon as they are eligible.” Acting Minister for Health James Merlino said: “There are currently thousands of vaccination bookings available across the state, we’re asking all Victorians to go out and get your essential third dose now.”