The McGowan Government welcomes the new COVID-19 General Order issued yesterday by the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission.
The General Order grants all State system private sector employees, including casual staff, up to two weeks’ unpaid pandemic leave to cover periods they are required to self-isolate by government or medical authorities.
New flexibility provisions for annual leave are also included; employees can, with agreement from their employer, double their annual leave at half pay or take annual leave in advance.
State system employers include sole traders, partnerships, unincorporated trust arrangements, and some not-for-profit bodies and incorporated associations.
The new terms apply immediately and will be in place until July 31, 2020, unless extended.
The General Order was developed with input from the State Government, UnionsWA, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA, and the WA Local Government Association.
For more information, visit https://www.dmirs.wa.gov.au/wageline
As stated by Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston:
“The McGowan Government welcomes unpaid pandemic leave, as it will help preserve State system jobs if workers are required to self-isolate.
“I encourage all private sector employers and employees to work together during this difficult period and use these new provisions if it suits their workplace circumstances.
“The development of the new General Order is a great example of unions, business groups and Government working together to help small businesses employees during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
