Boroondara Council staff afforded extra sick leave if affected by COVID — 19
An inner east council is providing extra sick leave to staff if they test positive to coronavirus. It comes as the council suspends most of its activities.
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An inner east council has taken the unusual step of offering its workers an extra two weeks sick leave specifically for the coronavirus.
Boroondara Council informed staff of its decision last week.
Boroondara people, culture and development executive manager Carolyn Terry said the paid leave was available for all staff members to protect the health and wellbeing of both community and staff through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The council made this decision to minimise the likelihood of staff, who engage with our residents on a regular basis, infecting the community if they attend work while sick,” she said.
“The COVID-19 leave entitlement will create the best opportunity for staff to manage ill health and minimise risk of contagion, without worrying about adequate sick leave during this difficult and unusual time.”
It comes as the council announces a whole range of measures to limit the virus’ spread, including the closure of public libraries, aquatic and leisure facilities, arts and culture centres and youth centre until at least April 15.
“The health and wellbeing of our community and council staff is our top priority. These measures are being implemented to reduce the risk of exposure and prevent the spread of this virus in our community,” Boroondara Mayor Cynthia Watson said.
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Council services to continue include its maternal and child health services, immunisation program and aged care services, while enforcement activities will be limited to critical matters. Waste collections will not be affected.