12 October 2021
The ANMF (SA Branch) is calling on the State Government to amend Return to Work legislation to ensure that nurses, midwives and care workers who contract COVID-19 are deemed to have done so at work rather than have to prove that this was the case.
With the imminent re-opening of the state, the ANMF (SA Branch) has written to the State Government expressing our concern that frontline health workers including nurses, midwives and care workers will be exposed to those suffering with COVID-19 and at high risk of contracting the virus by virtue of their work.
Given this exposure is a clear occupational risk associated with their work, we are seeking the Government’s support in amending the Return to Work legislation and/or regulations to ensure that frontline health workers, including nurses, midwives and care workers, are automatically recognised and covered by the Return to Work Act should they contract COVID-19.
We understand that workers can apply to be covered by the scheme as and when they fall ill. However, in the absence of a deeming provision, the onus of proof rests upon them. With the high level of exposure likely to occur and the existing and future pressure on our members in serving the SA community, we believe reversing that onus is warranted in these circumstances.
Given the re-opening of the state is increasingly imminent, we are seeking the Government’s urgent response.
Please view the letter here