PANDEMIC LEAVE DISASTER PAYMENT FOR TASMANIA

Tasmanian workers are now eligible for a $1,500 Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment if they cannot work because they need to self-isolate or quarantine.

 

The Australian Government has extended Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment arrangements to include Tasmania following agreement with the Tasmanian Government.

 

It is a lump sum payment to help workers during their 14 day self-isolation period and applies from 22 August 2020.

 

If an individual is instructed by a health official to stay home from work, and has used up all their sick leave entitlements, including any special pandemic leave, they may be eligible to make a claim. People may also be eligible if they’re the parent or guardian of a child aged 16 or under who is a close contact or has tested positive for COVID-19.

 

Tasmanians workers are eligible for the payment if they are not receiving income, earnings or salary maintenance from work, receiving the JobKeeper Payment or other forms of Australian Government income support. The payment can be claimed again should an extended quarantine period longer than 14 days be instructed by health officials.

 

To date in Victoria more than $8.8 million has been paid for almost 6,000 granted claims since 6 August.

 

The fastest and easiest way to make a claim is over the phone by calling 180 22 66. Please do not visit a service centre. Further information is available at http://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/disaster.