Greens call on government to provide emergency payments for casual workers

2021-02-12

The Victorian Greens have called on the Andrews Labor Government to provide casual workers with an emergency payment, to ensure they aren’t financially impacted by the upcoming five-day lockdown.

The lockdown that was announced today, while necessary, will be particularly difficult for casual workers in the hospitality and retail industries.

This weekend was set to be a big one with Chinese New Year, Valentine’s Day, the Australian Open, and other events. 

Casual workers have already been hit hard by the impacts of COVID-19 and the Greens are urging the government to make a special payment available for casuals who will be missing out on income over the next five days.

The government currently provides casual workers with a $450 dollar payment if they miss work while awaiting COVID-19 test results at home.

Leader of the Victorian Greens, Samantha Ratnam, said the Greens supported the lockdown on the basis of public health advice and the need to keep Victorians safe. 

However, she added it was important casual workers weren’t left behind as a result. 

Quotes attributable to Leader of the Victorian Greens, Samantha Ratnam MLC:

“It is a difficult day for Victorians heading back into lockdown. The Greens support the five-day lockdown, however, we know some in our community will be hit harder than others.

“The Greens are calling on the government to make a special payment available for casual workers who are looking at missing significant income from what was to be a busy weekend.

“It is vital that as we continue to respond and manage the COVID pandemic no-one is left behind.”