Towards the end of last year, the CPSU NSW advised all members that TAFE NSW had been approached about their consultation process regarding the proposed mandatory vaccination policy. It was the view of the CPSU NSW that, in light of the decision of CFMMEU v Mt. Arthur Coal Pty Ltd, TAFE NSW must properly consult with the CPSU NSW before introducing any mandatory vaccination policy.
After having approached TAFE NSW in relation to this, the CPSU NSW and TAFE NSW met once again to discuss the mandatory vaccination policy. This followed consultation meetings to discuss the policy, in addition to the bi-weekly meetings held between the parties organised to discuss all COVID-19 related issues in the workplace.
At this meeting, several of the CPSU NSW’s concerns were reiterated; namely, that there should be consideration of the fact that TAFE NSW employees have varying levels of interaction with students and other TAFE NSW employees, and that students themselves are not required by TAFE NSW to be vaccinated prior to entering a TAFE NSW campus.
Given that TAFE NSW have thoroughly consulted with the CPSU NSW and conducted a risk assessment with respect to the introduction of mandatory vaccinations, the CPSU NSW is of the view that TAFE’s obligations under the Enterprise Agreement would likely be found to have been satisfied. On this basis, it is important to understand that all employees will require both vaccine doses prior to 31 January 2022, subject to any exemption that may apply to you. If you are intending on getting both doses of the vaccine but are not able to schedule the second vaccine prior to 31 January 2022, please get in touch with the CPSU NSW on 1300 772 679.
If you have any other questions or concerns regarding TAFE’s mandatory vaccination policy, feel free to get in touch with the CPSU NSW. We understand that this will be a difficult process for some, and we will assist members where possible once TAFE’s mandatory policy comes into effect.
