Changes to My Vaccine Pass Requirements and QR code scanning come into effect from 4 April 2022

The Government has announced the removal of the My Vaccine Pass and QR code scanning from Monday 4th of April 2022.

First, vaccine mandates will be lifted from a number of workforces. Only health and disability, aged care, prison staff, and border and MIQ workers will be required to be vaccinated. These remaining mandates are targeted at protecting those most vulnerable from the virus and creating a barrier against new variants coming from overseas.

Employees who lost their jobs due to the vaccine mandates are not entitled to their former job back following these changes. If an employee lost their employment due to a Government vaccination mandate or a vaccination mandate imposed by their employer, that decision stands. The Government has confirmed businesses will not be required to offer jobs back to former employees. However, employees will still be able to bring a personal grievance against their former employer if they feel they have been unjustifiably dismissed due to their vaccination status.

Second, the use of My Vaccine Pass and QR code scanning requirements will become optional. It will be up to individual businesses to decide whether they wish to maintain vaccine passes and QR codes.  The My Vaccine Pass infrastructure will be maintained for businesses that still wish to require vaccinations for entry to their premises.

The Government has advised employers who wish to consider the role vaccinations play in their businesses to complete a health and safety risk assessment in accordance with WorkSafe guidelines.  Employers must continue to consult with their employees when developing COVID-19 control mechanisms.

If you have any questions about how these changes may affect you or your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and one of our team and will be happy to advise.