HIA WA Executive Director Cath Hart attended today’s briefing for industry and said the advice from the Government was clearer now that dates had been set for both first and second doses for workers in building, maintenance and construction.

“We’ve been anticipating this announcement for several months and with a clear direction set, we now know the expectations of our workforce as WA gradually prepares to reopen to other states,” Ms Hart said.

“We have been working with Government over recent months to ensure that any requirements are realistic and appropriate for the residential construction sector.

“We are seeking clarification on some elements, including whether the whole construction supply chain is in the mandated “Group 2” category, particularly given the interaction of fabricators, manufacturers, suppliers and installers with those in building, maintenance and construction.

“We expect these matters will likely be resolved via the roundtable process and welcome the move by the Government to take industry feedback in the development of the health directives through that process.

“Given the significant volume of residential construction work currently in the pipeline, we know that the ongoing operation of the WA housing sector is vital, so we urge our members to follow the health advice from the Government to get vaccinated to protect our industry and our community against the threat of COVID-19.”

Employees will be required to provide proof to their employer once fully vaccinated, while the employer will be responsible for obtaining these records, with further explanation to be raised by at the upcoming industry roundtable.

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