The Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission has approved unpaid COVID-19 leave, annual leave on half pay, and annual leave in advance for State Government employees.
The Commission has issued a General Order under the Industrial Relations Act 1979.
implementing the flexible leave arrangements which it says would assist organisations to continue to operate and preserve continuity of employment.
The Commission detailed the arrangements, saying unpaid pandemic leave of up to two weeks could be taken if the employee was required, either by the Government or medical authorities, to self-isolate.
It would also apply if the employee was otherwise prevented from working by measures taken by the Government or medical authorities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
It said double annual leave at half pay would be by agreement between the employer and employee as would annual leave taken in advance.
“These measures will operate until 31 July and may be extended,” the Commission said.
“The General Order will apply to all private sector employers and employees in the State system, whether covered by an award or not.”
The Commission said that where an award or industrial agreement contained a more beneficial term than the General Order, the award would apply.
“Otherwise, where there is conflict between the terms of the General Order and the award, the terms of the General Order will apply,” it said.
Details of the General Order can be accessed on the Commission’s website at this PS News link.
