NSW Health has implemented a new risk matrix on the evening of 31 December 2021 for furloughing of staff. The new risk matrix further reduces isolation requirements to ensure adequate staffing for safe service delivery.

Unfortunately, this new risk matrix was put to the HSU with a minimum of consultation, with only 40 minutes to respond. While it’s important to maintain staffing levels in health facilities, this shouldn’t come at the expense of your right to consultation on changes that affect you. We also note that this current situation is the result of years of cutting staff and allowing positions to remain vacant.

Summarised below is how the risk matrix will be applied by NSW Health:

If exposed in the community such as in a social setting, health employees will be required to continue attending work with daily COVID-19 rapid antigen tests (RAT) for 7 days post exposure, including on non-work days. 

Please see below links to NSW Health’s:  

• Risk Assessment Matrix
• Managing Health Care Worker Exposure Factsheet

Please call our Member Services Division on 1300 478 679 or email [E-Mail not displayed] if you have questions or need advice/representation. 

The HSU will continue to advocate for members and provide regular updates.

It’s never been more important to be part of your Union. Know someone who isn’t yet an HSU member? Tell them to join today at www.hsu.asn.au/join or call 1300 478 679.