Mandating Vaccines – is it possible?

The recent actions of a well-known national Food Processor, plus guidance from the Fair Work Ombudsman, have reignited conversation about whether it is possible to require employees be vaccinated against COVID-19. SPC, the Food Processor, has set a timeframe by which all employees, who can get vaccinated, must get vaccinated. While the Food Processor has indicated sweeping support from employees, the decision has received a mixed reaction externally. If challenged, the legal consequences of the mandate probably wouldn’t be seen for quite some time, however the challenges they are likely to face are already apparent. This article highlights the commentary about the mandate as an example of what could be expected should a QTA member attempt the same.