From 11:59pm on Wednesday 5 August, employers that require their staff to attend a work site must issue a worker permit to their employees – this is the employer’s responsibility.
This follows the Victorian Government accouncement that from 11:59pm Wednesday 5 August, workplaces in Melbourne must be closed unless:
- the workplace is part of a permitted activity, or
- all employees are working from home
Penalties of up to $19,826 (for individuals) and $99,132 (for businesses) will apply to employers who issue worker permits to employees who do not meet the requirements of the worker permit scheme or who otherwise breach the scheme requirements.
There will also be on-the-spot fines of up to $1,652 (for individuals) and up to $9,913 (for businesses) for anyone who breaches the scheme requirements. This includes employers and employees who do not carry their worker permit when travelling to and from work.
Eligibility
Employers can issue a worker permit to their employee if:
- the organisation is on the list of permitted activities
- the employee is working in an approved category for on-site work, and
- the employee cannot work from home
In rare circumstances an employee does not need a worker permit.
This includes:
- if an employee is at risk at home, such as at risk of family violence
- law enforcement, emergency services workers or health workers who carry employer-issued photographic identification, which clearly identifies the employer
An employee must not use a worker permit, even if they have been issued one, if:
- they test positive to coronavirus (COVID-19) and are required to self-isolate
- they are a close contact of someone who has tested positive
Download the form: Permitted work permit
Learn more: Victorian Government Website
