Authors: Andrew Shute, Partner & Lara Radik, Special Counsel
On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organisation declared COVID-19, also referred to as Novel Coronavirus, a pandemic (an infectious disease outbreak that spreads on a global scale). On 15 March 2020, a mandatory self-isolation period of 14 days was imposed on all people entering Australia from overseas. As the virus continues to spread, and governments continue to impose restrictions, it is important that employers and employees understand their rights and responsibilities.
At the outset, please note the following in respect of the information in this alert:
- It is current at the time of publishing. Due to the rapidly evolving nature of the guidance surrounding self-isolation, it is prudent to regularly check the information available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website and the Department of Health website;
- It is general in nature. Additional rights or obligations may arise under an award, enterprise agreement, employment contract or workplace policy applying to a particular employment relationship. It also remains possible that Parliament may enact legislation to address the impact of COVID-19 in respect of employment matters;
- It does not apply to contractors. Where a business has engaged contractors, the terms of the contract should be considered on a case by case basis in determining whether the contractor’s services can be varied, suspended or terminated.
So what does that mean for employment rights and obligations?
