We strongly encourage Local Governments to:
a. find alternative work for employees affected by the lockdown this week that can be undertaken from home or work (if the employee is an essential worker), and
b. avoid standing employees down without pay.
Pandemic provisions – Federal award
Where the Local Government Industry Award 2020 (LGIA) applies, Schedule X of the LGIA provides for two weeks’ unpaid pandemic leave and it allows an employer and employee to agree to an employee taking twice as much annual leave on half pay. The operation of Schedule X in the LGIA has been extended to 29 March 2021.
Pandemic provisions – State General Order
A General Order was issued last year by the WA Industrial Relations Commission which applies to Local Governments that operate in the State industrial relations system and their employees. The General Order provides for two weeks’ unpaid pandemic leave and the taking of annual leave at half pay and in advance. The General Order has been extended to 31 March 2021.
If you are a subscriber to the WALGA Employee Relations service and require advice, please email WALGA Employee Relations or call 1300 366 956.
If you don’t subscribe to the WALGA Employee Relations service and require advice, please contact your usual employee relations or legal advisor.
Acknowledgement of Country
WALGA acknowledges the continuing connection of Aboriginal people to Country, culture and community. We embrace the vast Aboriginal cultural diversity throughout Western Australia, including Boorloo (Perth), on the land of the Whadjuk Nyoongar People, where WALGA is located and we acknowledge and pay respect to Elders past and present.