Victoria COVID Update, 21 September 2021
There has been a significant change to the construction industry announced overnight.
Construction in metropolitan Melbourne, City of Ballarat, City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and Mitchell Shire will be closed from 11:59 pm, Monday 20 September.
Workers will only be able to attend construction sites in these areas to complete emergency work. For the next day or so limited workers will be able to attend sites to complete any work required to make the site safe and secure for shut down.
I want to assure you all that AGWA is doing everything it can to advocate for members during these incredibly difficult times. We have written countless letters and are engaging with State and Federal Governments to raise your concerns and communicate the devastating effect these constant changes of controls are having on your businesses and our industry. We will continue to engage on your behalf and hope that things start to improve soon.
At this stage manufacturing is not affected by these restrictions. Manufacturing is still classified as authorised work and so can continue to operate. Delivery drivers are also still permitted to operate although deliveries to construction sites will be stopped in line with the recent announcements.
A priority blitz to vaccinate construction workers will continue until Sunday, 26 September:
COVID-19 Vaccines | Victorian Government
A COVID-19 disaster payment is available to help workers unable to earn income due to public health orders. Workers that are unable to work from home are stood down without pay and are then eligible for this $450 or $750 weekly payment.
COVID-19 Disaster Payment | Services Australia
Here is the Media Release from the Victorian Premier:
Construction Industry To Shut Down For Two Weeks | Victorian Premier
Please look after yourselves - I will update you again as soon as there is more information released.
Take care and stay safe,
Melissa Baker
National Industry Development Manager
Australian Glass and Window Association