By Juliano Oliveira
Queensland workers without access to paid sick leave will be given one-off $1500 payment in case they test positive for COVID-19.
The eligibility for this payment consists of being employed, test positive to COVID – 19 and have no access to paid sick leave or pandemic leave.
“If a casually employed Queenslander who is not eligible for the Federal Government’s JobKeeper payment contracts COVID-19, they will have no access to an income during their time away from work,” said Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
“Unfortunately, there are many casually employed Queenslanders whose jobs are vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Employees whose sick leave or pandemic leave entitlements have exhausted, and tests positive to COVID-19, will also be able to claim the benefit.
“This initiative is all about keeping Queenslanders safe and healthy – ensuring workers are supported to stay home when required and keep their customers and work colleagues safe and healthy. ”
The PM affirmed that the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training will work closely with Queensland Health to ensure when these Queenslanders’ are tested positive for COVID-19 that they are referred to the Department for this assistance.