The Health Services Union has been informed that since 25 December 2021, all staff at CASS Aged Care Facility have been directed to come to work 15 minutes early to take on-site compulsory rapid antigen tests. Despite this direction, staff have not been paid for those 15 minutes.

Your local HSU Organiser Hyojung Kim has contacted local management to seek clarification on payment for the time taken to test. The issue has now been escalated to a higher level of the organisation.

Testing as required by your employer is only a reasonable direction if this is done on paid time. You and your colleagues don’t have to attend work before your normal starting time, but if you are directed to do so, it must be paid.

If you have undergone compulsory RAT outside your ordinary ​work hours and did not get paid for that time, please contact your local Organiser Hyojung Kim immediately at [E-Mail not displayed] or 0458 012 322.

Please share this with your workmates and tell them that union members make sure workplace rights are upheld. We are always stronger when we stand together. Joining is easy – new members can join online at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.

Finally, I want to acknowledge your continued hard work on the front line of the pandemic. Thank you for working as an essential health worker.