Australian-first sick pay guarantee for casual workers

Victorians who work in casual or other insecure jobs will no longer be forced to choose between a day’s pay and looking after their health thanks to the Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee.

An Australian-first, the $245.6 million scheme will transform casual and contract work in Victoria by providing vulnerable workers the safety net they need to take time off when they‘re sick or need to care for loved ones.

Around one in five casual and contract workers work more than one job to earn a living – many without access to sick and carer’s pay.

Workers are now able to register for the two-year pilot program, and it is anticipated that more than 150,000 workers will be eligible in this first phase.

Eligible casual and contract workers in certain occupations will receive up to five days a year of sick or carer's pay at the national minimum wage.

Occupations included in the first phase include hospitality workers, food trades workers and preparation assistants such as chefs and kitchen hands, supermarket and supply chain workers, retail and sales assistants, aged and disability care workers, cleaners and laundry workers and security guards.

To find out more visit vic.gov.au/sick-pay-guarantee and to apply for a payment if you’re eligible visit service.vic.gov.au.