Responding to the COVID-19 wave, the Fair Work Commission has extended “Schedule X” to operate until December 31 in “the most at-risk and vulnerable sectors” – ie. the health care, aged care and other care sectors.
The affected awards are:
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services Award 2020;
- Aged Care Award 2010;
- Ambulance and Patient Transport Industry Award 2020;
- Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020; and
- Supported Employment Services Award 2020.
- Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award 2010 (SCHADS Award)
Schedule X provides for up to 2 weeks’ unpaid leave if the employee is required by government or medical authorities or on the advice of a medical practitioner to self-isolate and is consequently prevented from working, or is otherwise prevented from working by measures taken by government or medical authorities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Employers should be aware that other workplace rights such as temporary absence protections and rights for taking personal/carers, annual or even long service leave still apply, as well as any additional rights from a modern award.