On 29/1/20 the FSU wrote to all the banks to ask what arrangements they were putting in place to combat the public safety risks posed by Coronavirus.
While the other major banks were quick to agree that any time off work would be treated as special paid leave, CBA’s response was far less absolute:
Employees are entitled to access their Personal/Carers Leave and Compassionate Leave entitlements in line with the Group’s policy. Further, given the stance being taken by various schools (some enforcing 2 week exclusions), we will continue to support any staff who are required to stay at home to look after children.
The Group is facilitating working from home arrangements where possible or special leave provisions where this is not possible.
We followed up to clarify that in order to do their part to protect their staff and the public, special paid leave should be the default. CBA never responded. The FSU understands that in some advice to staff, CBA have indicated that special paid leave is available.
Today we have started to hear worrying reports that CBA have advised staff that if their workplace is “locked down” they’ll be placed on annual leave.
The FSU absolutely rejects any approach that requires workers to use their accrued leave in response to a public health emergency. Your annual leave is yours. If you have been directed to take your accrued leave, we urge you to get in touch with your union on 1300 366 378 or email fsuinfo@fsunion.org.au
In Unity,
Julia Angrisano
Contact Details
Finance Sector Union
Ph: 1300 366 378
fsuinfo@fsunion.org.au
