It has come to our attention that staff who return to Dorothy Boyt House from the Single Site Funding program from 1 November 2021 were told they were required to come 15 minutes early at every shift to take on-site rapid antigen testing – but won’t be paid for these 15 minutes.

Your HSU local Organiser contacted Anglicare immediately to seek clarification on the payment for the extra hours for the testing, and obtained the following confirmation in writing:  

“Staff have not been asked to commence their shifts 15 minutes early, but they have been advised they will be required to have a RAT test done on arrival.”

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.