The Queensland Government will set out the testing requirements for fully vaccinated essential workers who are close contacts to return to work, add new industries and clarify other roles that are covered.
From 24 January 2022, the list of critical industries will be expanded to include the beverages, telecommunications, broadcasting and journalism industries. Health will also be clarified to include disability care and aged care.
Testing requirements have changed and the Isolation for Diagnosed Cases of COVID-19 and Management of Close Contacts Direction (No. 3) will be updated.
The critically essential worker must have no symptoms of COVID-19, be fully vaccinated and provide a negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) on their first day of work, prior to commencing work, and on every second day thereafter while working, including Day 6 of their quarantine period.
Where possible daily testing should be considered best practice in critical industries but is not required at this stage. Both the employer and employee must agree that the worker needs to return to the workplace.
COVID-19 testing requirements in place for critically essential workers are consistent with national health guidelines and will help minimise risk in the workplace.
For guidelines visit: Critically Essential Worker requirements.
Vaccine booster eligibility change
From 24 January 2022, people can get their COVID-19 vaccine booster shot three months after their second vaccination. This change was going to take effect on 1 February 2022, but is being brought forward.
Everyone is encouraged to get their booster as soon as possible and book online.
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For further updates please keep checking the Queensland Government website. In addition to this message you can stay up-to-date with the latest assistance from the Queensland and Australian Governments through the Business Queensland website. You can also follow us at facebook.com/businessqldgov