The Victorian Government today announced mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for all authorised workers, including disability workers. First doses are required by 15 October and second doses by 26 November.

The announcement applies across all of Victoria, coming after months of concerted advocacy by NDS and at a time when some providers have been announcing their own policies for mandatory vaccination. Today’s news means welcome uniformity for the Victorian sector.

Public Health Orders underpinning this direction will provide important clarity on how the decision will apply to disability services. NDS will inform the sector when details become available.

The 15 October deadline does not affect workers who are under existing directions to receive vaccinations as a condition of employment, including those in healthcare, aged care, and education.

Vaccination bookings

Residential disability workers are eligible for priority bookings at state vaccination centres, including drive-through clinics, for the vaccine of their choice.

Workers can arrange an online vaccination appointment or call the booking hotline on 1800 675 398. Telling the operator they are a residential disability worker will secure a reserved priority booking.

Bookings with a GP or pharmacy can be made online at the Vaccine Clinic Finder

All providers are encouraged to work closely with their participants and workers to achieve a high vaccination uptake over coming weeks, and to sensitively address issues of hesitancy and concern. NDS will continue to support efforts.

Living with COVID-19 meetings

In response to the current COVID-19 situation in Victoria, NDS invites providers to attend our fortnightly interactive Living with COVID-19 webinars.

The meetings will commence on Friday 8 October, from 11am to 12pm, and focus on information sharing and collaboration.

As Victoria opens up, sessions will include updates on current government directions and restrictions, presentations from relevant experts, sharing of good practice, and consideration of emerging issues.

The first of these webinars will focus on the implications of mandatory vaccinations for our sector. See Living with COVID-19: Information sharing and collaboration series for details and registration.