The Finance Sector Union (FSU) has secured a big win for Westpac staff after the bank agreed to the FSU’s proposal to give its staff paid leave for Covid-19 vaccinations.
FSU National Secretary Julia Angrisano said Westpac Bank staff will be eligible for 4 hours paid leave for each Covid vaccination appointment. Staff who have already used their leave for such a purpose will have it re-credited.
“Staff in retail banking branches put themselves, their family and the community at risk through potential exposure to Covid-19 so we are pleased that Westpac have agreed to provide paid vaccination leave,” Ms Angrisano said.
“This is an important win for our members and all Westpac staff.”
“With vaccinations becoming more accessible, we have a shared opportunity to take positive steps towards controlling this pandemic and it is in the interests of finance sector workers, employers and the community for staff to receive a vaccination as soon as possible.”
Ms Angrisano said paid vaccination leave removes a significant barrier for bank staff to have a vaccination.
“The FSU commends Westpac for this policy, and we now have the expectation that all banks and finance sector organisations will soon follow.”
“We believe it is in the best interests of our members, their families and the entire community for financial services firms to step up and do their bit to make sure staff get vaccinated.”
Media contact John Hill 0412 197 079