No images? Click here OFFICIAL: COVID-19 Update for AOD Service ProvidersPosted to VAADA ENews on behalf of Matthew Hercus, Executive Director | Mental Health & AOD System Management, Mental Health & Wellbeing Division, Department of Health Hi all, Mandatory third dose vaccination requirements for AOD workersI understand that the department’s website “Worker Vaccination Requirements” has led to some confusion regarding whether some AOD workers meet the definition for ‘healthcare workers’ and would therefore be subject to the booster deadline. In summary, it is the department’s understanding that persons working in connection with alcohol and drug residential services (care workers) are NOT subject to the mandatory third dose vaccination order that came into place at 11:59pm on 12 January, according to Pandemic COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination (Specified Workers) Order 2022 (No. 2). However, persons who are performing direct care and interaction roles in healthcare services, which includes hospitals, community health and drug and alcohol counselling services, ARE subject to the mandatory third dose vaccination order that came into place at 11:59pm on 12 January, according to Pandemic COVID-19 Mandatory Vaccination (Specified Facilities) Order 2022 (No. 2). These public health orders can be found at the Pandemic Order Register. I urge service providers to read the orders and consider in relation to their particular service settings and staffing groups whether any individual’s work, professional registration and setting may cause them to be in scope for mandatory third dose vaccination. It is recommended that independent legal guidance is sought if an individual is concerned that their actions may be in breach of the orders. Regards, Matthew Hercus NOTICE: Any views expressed in this communication are those of the individual sender, except where the sender specifically states them to be the views of VAADA. Except as required by law, VAADA does not represent, warrant and/or guarantee that the integrity of this communication has been maintained nor that the communication is free of errors, virus, interception or interference. If you have received this email in error please contact VAADA at vaada@vaada.org.au. |