The company has advised around 4,000 frontline workers in its home care, disability, allied health, and Indigenous Services businesses that they must be vaccinated by no later than 31 December 2021. The requirement also applies to all employees who need to attend work at designated workplaces where human services are provided.

This health and safety initiative expands on government vaccination requirements that already apply to the company’s residential aged care workforce and NSW-based disability workers in local government areas of concern.

Australian Unity’s CEO, Independent & Assisted Living, Kevin McCoy said:

“Australian Unity strongly believes that vaccination against COVID-19 is the best way to protect our vulnerable customers and our people who care for and support them.

“We also believe that a fully vaccinated community provides the safest and best path for Australians to get back to living our lives free from the restrictions, hardships, rising mental health impacts and heartbreak caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a company committed to the real wellbeing of our people, customers, and the broader community, we know it’s the right thing to do.”

Australian Unity will continue to support its people to access the COVID-19 vaccination program with time off to attend vaccine appointments; personal leave if they feel unwell after having the vaccine; and where available, access to government support for getting vaccinated.