National employer association Ai Group says the federal government needs to address the lack of legal protection for companies against adverse vaccine reactions in workers before any roll-out of workplace-based vaccinations can proceed.
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| “Workers' compensation does not provide appropriate or affordable protections": Innes Willox, CEO, Ai Group |
Ai CEO Innes Willox expressed his concerns about the workplace vaccination program in a meeting with the Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and the National Vaccine Taskforce.
"Today’s [Wednesday] consultation with the Federal Treasurer and the National COVID Vaccine Taskforce was a welcome opportunity to discuss how businesses can play a key role in delivering vaccine to staff, their families, customers and the broader community," Willox said.
"Businesses are ready to communicate to their employees and the broader community the gains that come with vaccination. Benefits such as open borders, greater travel, reduced quarantine requirements and reduced restrictions provide strong incentives for the community to be vaccinated in addition to the obvious health benefits.
"However, Ai Group raised the significant impediments around the lack of indemnity for companies and restrictive privacy rules that put workers at risk that need to be addressed before the roll-out of workplace-based vaccinations.
“Workers' compensation does not provide appropriate or affordable protections for businesses against adverse vaccine reactions.
"Businesses need the same indemnities that the Government gives to itself, doctors and pharmaceutical companies.”
Ai Group said many businesses are eager to host workplace-based vaccinations when supplies are available. Airports, shopping centres, industrial parks, clubs and pubs (especially in rural and regional Australia) are also potential vaccination sites.
"The Treasurer and Lieutenant General Frewen are to be congratulated for organising today’s consultation and being open to the advice of the business community," Willox added. "On behalf of our members we look forward to participating in further meetings as the roll-out strategy is advanced."
