Latest COVID-19 update from CFMEU

Potential impacts on your workplace in Metropolitan Melbourne from today’s COVID-19 announcement

Yesterday the State Government announced some big changes for workplaces operating in Metropolitan Melbourne.

Some workplaces will remain open, some will have operations restricted, some will be closed for the next 6 weeks commencing 11.59pm on Wednesday, 5 August 2020.

Many of our workplaces will be able to stay open with a COVID Safe-Plan in place for example:

• Forestry workplaces for the purposes of or relating to:
  • Production of firewood for heating of premises
  • Production of pallets
  • Building supplies for construction
  • Other permitted activities (e.g. caskets and coffins)
• Manufacturing of Medical equipment and PPE including manufacturing of cloth masks
• Manufacturing to support residential building industry (we assume this includes windows, doors, joinery, etc)
• Pulp, paper and converted paper product manufacturing
• Glass and glass product manufacturing
• Sanitary products
• Laundries
• Dry Cleaners

There are several sectors in Metropolitan Melbourne such window furnishings - blinds and curtains; carpets; and bedding which we are investigating about whether they can stay open.   

These sectors may receive an exemption from closure, due to their role within the construction sector.  We are seeking clarification of this and will provide further information when available. 

Some workplaces in Metropolitan Melbourne will be closed (unless the company is specifically granted an exemption). Closed industries in Metropolitan Melbourne may include:

• Forestry and logging
• Non-metallic mineral product manufacturing
• Fabricated metal product manufacturing
• Furniture and other manufacturing
• Other wood product manufacturing
• Textile manufacturing
• Textile product manufacturing and
• Clothing and footwear manufacturing

For a full list of sectors which will be open, restricted, or closed please click here.

We know that this a confusing and difficult time for many of us. The Union is always here to help. You can contact us on 1800 060 556 (from 8.00AM-5.00PM) or via your Organiser.

If you require financial advice, we recommend you contact your superannuation provider.

First Super	1300 360 988
Australian Super	1300 300 273
CBUS	1300361784

 

No matter how you are impacted by the Stage 3 and 4 restrictions now in place across Victoria, there is support for you. Trained councillors are available to support you through this time.  

Lifeline	131114
Beyond Blue	1300224636
Employee Assistance Program	(through your employer where available)

 

We will attempt to keep you informed by text and email and you should also regularly check the Union’s website and Facebook page for updates.