Young Aussie Workers Welcome Victoria’s Casual Paid Sick Leave Trial

"I've gone to work sick an unreasonable amount of times because I can't afford not to."

The ‘Victorian Sick Pay Guarantee’ is set to provide vulnerable or insecure job workers with a safety net to take time off when they're sick or need to care for loved ones.

Eligible industries are those that have the largest number of casuals like hospitality, food trade, retail, aged, and disability care.

The $245 million move has been applauded by industrial relations experts and unions, calling on other states to follow Victoria’s lead.

In a statement, the United Workers Union’s National Secretary, Tim Kennedy said “If the COVID pandemic has shown us anything, it is that casual, precarious and insecure work has ramifications for the health of the whole community.”

He went on to commend the Daniel Andrews Government for listening to workers' concerns, with the Victorian Premier himself calling insecure work "toxic".

That’s certainly been the case for 24-year-old Jess Negus. Around one in five casual workers work more than one job, and she’s one of them.

Jess is currently holding down three positions at entertainment venues because she “never knows when hours at one are going to dip or if more work will arise at another.”

She says she’s gone to work sick an “unreasonable amount of times” because she can’t afford to not.

“Having paid sick leave would mean that you don’t have to compromise your wellbeing just to try and stay afloat, which is critical! I’d really like to see initiatives like this implemented nationwide,” Jess said.

Although views like Jess’ and the Unions are mirrored by a lot of young Australians right now, the scheme has also been dealt some backlash.

The Opposition and some business groups aren’t as pleased, citing concerns with the already existing 25 per cent casual loading, and the fact the trial will be taxpayer-funded.

The issue is predicted to cause a political battleground heading into state and federal elections.

However, the United Workers Union is pushing for Prime Minister Scott Morrison to amend the National Employment Standards to ensure 10 days of paid sick leave for all workers, nationwide.

In the meantime, eligible Victorians can apply and claim from the scheme now, and the Victorian government has provided a detailed FAQ here.