The IEUWA encourages members to protect themselves, their families, and their school communities by getting vaccinated against COVID-19 if they are able to do so.
The IEUWA has not advocated for the mandatory vaccination of school staff in Western Australia.
The health and safety of all workers in schools is dependent upon as many staff as possible being vaccinated. The IEU understand that some staff may have concerns about vaccination requirements. These concerns must be balanced against the overwhelming importance of ensuring a safe workplace for all IEU members.
Vaccines, along with improved ventilation, social distancing, and sufficiently resourced cleaning and hygiene practices, are the best way to achieve a safe workplace for all IEUWA members and avoid disruptions to schooling arrangements.
The IEUWA strongly advise any member with concerns about the vaccine to consult their GP for informed, expert advice which considers their personal circumstances.
The IEUWA will support and represent any member who has a valid medical exemption – but the initial advice must come from a medical professional.
Achieving a high rate of vaccination is the clearest path out of the current pandemic and towards a safer and more equitable society.
Quotes attributable to IEUWA Branch Secretary Rebecca Collopy:
“Every worker is entitled to be provided a safe workplace free from risk of hazards and injury. The IEU will continue to advocate for members’ right to safe workplaces.”
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Please see the links to COVID-19 information provided by the WA Health Department, Commonwealth Health Department, and the World Health Organisation (WHO)
https://ww2.health.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Campaign-COVID-19
https://www.health.gov.au/resources/collections/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-resources
https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines/is-it-true
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-vaccines/advice
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