What happens if I need to get tested and self-isolate or self-quarantine? Am I entitled to COVID-19 leave?
Public sector employees who have symptoms or attended one of the affected locations at the time specified must have a COVID-19 test immediately and self-isolate at home until they receive a negative result.
Additionally, if an employee was at one of the affected restaurant locations, during the specified time, the staff member must get tested and complete the full 14 days of self-quarantine regardless of their test result. The 14-day period commences from the date and time of last potential exposure. If you have not yet been contacted by Public Health Operations please call 13 COVID (13 26843). Public Health Operations will provide guidance on testing and quarantine requirements.
The affected locations are listed on the HealthyWA website.
Employees may be entitled to COVID-19 leave for reasons as outlined in Circular 6 (2020, updated February 2021), including:
- Employees subject to a government requirement to self-isolate while awaiting test results for COVID-19 (if they cannot work from home);
- Employees subject to a government requirement to self-quarantine due to being a close contact of a confirmed case (if they cannot work from home);
- Employees subject to a government requirement to self-quarantine following work-related travel (if they cannot work from home);
- Employees who are caring for a person in self-isolation who has no carers leave entitlements;
- If an employee is ill, clause 2 of Circular 6 will apply and personal leave must first be exhausted. An employee who has no personal or sick leave entitlements can access COVID-19 leave if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19.
