Vic COVID-19 update: Mandatory third dose extension
What you need to know
- Mandatory vaccination third dose deadline extended by four weeks
- Most disability workers have to 12 March to get their booster shot
- Workers must provide evidence of a vaccine booking prior to their next shift from midnight 12 February.
Following advocacy, the Victorian Government has extended the booster deadline.
The obligation for an employer is that they must, as soon as reasonably practicable, inform the worker of the employer's obligations to collect and record the information in relation to the worker being fully vaccinated, or a booking being in place.
Mandatory third dose requirements
- Disability workers who were required to receive a third dose by 12 February must provide evidence to their employer of a COVID-19 vaccination booking by 12 March to work any shifts from midnight Saturday 12 February.
- Workers who were not due for their third dose by 12 January 2022, must have received their booster by 29 March 2022, otherwise they cannot continue to work.
- Providers must confirm the worker has received their third dose by their booster deadline, otherwise they cannot continue to work.
- Workers with a medical exemption must have this assessed by an authorised medical practitioner who can update the worker’s Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) or complete a Services Australia form. Note that some exemptions are temporary.
- Workers with a medical exemption must show employers their exemption evidence which will be updated to their AIR statement or Services Victoria covid vaccination certificate.
Vaccination after testing positive for COVID-19
Disability workers who have had COVID-19 must still receive a third dose. Vaccinations can be temporarily deferred for up to four months, provided they meet the requirements.ATAGI advice following COVID-19 states previous infection is not a contraindication to vaccination and that vaccination can occur following recovery of acute illness from COVID. Individuals with prolonged symptoms of COVID should be assessed by their health professional.
Booking options
Book a third dose at a state vaccination centre by booking online or by calling the Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398 between 8 am and 8 pm, 7 days a week.People with a disability aged 16 to 17 years can visit without a booking and receive a vaccine from any state-run vaccination centre.
Book at a GP or pharmacy by using the Australian Government’s Vaccine Clinic Finder
Useful Links
NDS Victorian COVID-19 Hub
In-reach vaccination services
Vaccine information for people with a disability
