QLD Health workers to get two days’ pandemic leave from November 1

In a major sign of gratitude for their tireless work on the front line of the COVID-19 fight, more than 90,500 Queensland Health staff members will score two days of pandemic leave from next month.

Every Queensland Health staff member will score two days of pandemic leave from November 1.

Health Minister Steven Miles said the staff, which include administration, hospital and ambulance staff, will have two years to take the days off to thank them for their work during the COVID response.

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It was earlier reported that just frontline staff would get the leave, but Mr Miles confirmed most QH staff, which total more than 90,500 workers, would qualify.

“There are so many health staff members who have worked incredibly hard to keep Queenslanders safe during this pandemic,” Mr Miles said.

Nurses are seen doing COVID-19 testing at a drive-thru fever clinic in Ipswich on August 24. Health workers who have gone above and beyond for the state will get two days’ extra leave. (Photo by Glenn Hunt/Getty Images)

“From our hardworking doctors, nurses, ambos, health professionals and pathology staff, to the cleaners, kitchen and administration staff, to the public health teams, contact tracers, staff in the State Health Emergency Coordination Centre, the public health directions team, exemptions team and COVID compliance team that works on COVID safe plans.”

“This is just one way we can say thank you and replay some of the hard work and tireless effort staff have put into the ongoing pandemic response.”

The additional two days leave will apply to permanent and temporary health care staff – excluding executives – across Queensland Health, including the Department of Health, Hospital and Health Services and Queensland Ambulance Service staff.

Part time staff will be pro-rated.