The state government has surpassed a new milestone, with 60,000 Victorians now signed up to the pilot Sick Pay Guarantee program for casual and self-employed contract workers.
The program has provided a safety net for vulnerable workers who need to take time off because they are sick or caring for loved ones.
Workers who are eligible to sign up include casual and contract retail assistants, hospitality workers, aged care and disability care workers, supermarket and supermarket supply chain workers, cleaners, laundry workers, security guards, food preparation workers, bakers, fast food workers, and kitchen hands.
Eligible casual and contract workers without sick leave entitlements can access up to 38 hours a year of sick and carer’s pay through the program, paid at the national minimum wage.
Since the scheme launched on Labour Day last year, more than $22 million has been paid to support more than 93,000 claims for sick and carer’s pay.
Details: vic.gov.au/sickpayguarantee
