How to Access Unpaid Pandemic Leave: A Guide for Employees
If COVID-19 prevents you from working, you may qualify for Unpaid Pandemic Leave. This entitlement helps employees manage quarantine periods or government restrictions without losing their job security.
Eligibility for Unpaid Pandemic Leave
You can access this leave if health orders or pandemic conditions stop you from attending work. Common reasons include:
- You must self-isolate or quarantine on the advice of a doctor or the government.
- You need to care for someone else who is isolating.
- A government “lockdown” has restricted your workplace from operating.
Entitlements for All Staff Types
Full-time, part-time, and casual employees can all take 2 weeks of Unpaid Pandemic Leave immediately. You do not need to accrue this leave over time. Furthermore, you do not have to use your sick leave or annual leave before asking for this unpaid option.
Giving Notice and Providing Evidence
You should notify your employer as soon as possible. Tell them how long you expect to be away and when you plan to return. If you have already contracted COVID-19, you can give notice after your leave starts.
Most workplaces require evidence before approving Unpaid Pandemic Leave. You can prove your eligibility with:
- A medical certificate.
- A letter from a registered practitioner.
- A government instruction via letter or digital message.
Related Article: Check our [internal link to your leave policy guide] to see how this fits into your standard contract.
Financial Support and the COVID-19 Disaster Payment
The COVID-19 Disaster Payment provides financial aid if you struggle during the pandemic. However, the rules for this payment differ from unpaid leave. You can only receive this payment after you use all available sick leave.
The payment amount depends on the hours or wages you lost because of quarantine. If you still have annual leave, you may still be eligible for this disaster relief.
Stay Updated on Industry Award Changes
Government agencies frequently update Award eligibility for Unpaid Pandemic Leave. These extensions often follow new COVID-19 outbreaks. For specific information regarding your industry, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman.
For more help with workplace rights, read this .
