National Cabinet ends mandatory isolation for covid-positive people

It is no longer mandatory for the vast majority of workers to isolate for five days if they test positive to covid-19.

The decision, which took effect in mid-October, was made by the National Cabinet, and agreed to by all the states and territories.

While self-isolation is no longer mandatory for most Australians, health authorities are still advising people to stay home if they have any covid-19 symptoms – including a runny nose, sore throat, cough and fever – and to get tested.

Mandatory isolation is still in force for some people, though.

"You may still be required to isolate in some circumstances, for example workers in high-risk settings such as aged care, disability care, Aboriginal healthcare and hospital care," according to the Fair Work Ombudsman.

"Other requirements may also apply, for example regarding covid-19 vaccinations, wearing masks and physical or social distancing. Employers and workers should check for any requirements that apply to them."

How to manage covid-19 in the workplace

The Fair Work Ombudsman said both employers and employees have responsibilities under workplace health and safety laws to not put the health and safety of other people – including colleagues, customers and visitors – at risk.

Therefore, sick employees "shouldn't attend the workplace".

The ombudsman also advised:

• Employers can direct employees to stay away from work when they're sick, in which case employees aren't entitled to be paid unless they take paid sick leave
• Employers can tell employees not to come to work as a precaution, in which case the employees are entitled to be paid
• If employees want to stay at home as a precaution, employers may be able to direct staff to attend work “if the direction is lawful and reasonable in the circumstances"
• Employees can take paid carer's leave when they need to look after an immediate family or household member who is sick with covid-19