The WA Government vaccine mandate second dose date is just around the corner (31.1.2022) but the recent change of booster eligibility from four months to three months after second dose, combined with the WA adoption of boosters as part of the mandate has led to confusion from businesses as to when staff are and are not allowed to work.
This confusion is understandable, as is the frustration that businesses are feeling with the constantly moving goal posts.
Currently, anyone aged 18 years and older who had their second dose more than three months ago.
This booster eligibility, combined with the vaccination mandate means that workers captured by the mandate must not be allowed at work unless they meet all the vaccination requirements…including boosters.
Workers captured under the mandatory vaccination directions, who were eligible to receive a booster dose at or before 4 January 2022, must receive their booster dose by 5 February 2022.
After 4 January 2022, as workers who are captured under the mandatory vaccination directions become eligible to receive a booster dose, they must do so within one calendar month of becoming eligible.
The table below sets out the dates by which the booster is required to have been administered for affected workers.
ACAPMA reminds members that these booster requirements do not change the standard dose one and dose two requirement outlined here: https://acapmag.com.au/2021/10/wa-vaccination-mandate/ and that penalties apply for non-compliance.
Here to help
HR Highlights are things to consider, implement and watch out for in your business. They are provided as general information for you to consider and do not constitute advice. You should seek further advice on your situation by contacting your legal advisor. ACAPMA members can access resources and receive advice, guidance and support from the ACAPMA employment professionals via employment@acapma.com.au, it is free for members. ACAPMA Membership delivers this and more benefits. See https://acapma.com.au/membership/ for more information.
Published with permission from ACAPMA.
Source: https://acapmag.com.au/2022/01/wa-booster-mandate-confusion/
