From 1 January 2021, all port workers in Western Australia will need to have had a first COVID-19 vaccine jab.
Port workers who deal directly with ships that arrive from overseas are already required to have had two jabs. However, from the New Year onwards, all port workers working on domestic vessels, or ships that have been through the WA health cleaning processes, or who are working on any port activities, port operators or port services – including the transport of crew from unexposed vessels or administrative, policy and reception work at port will be required to have a first jab.
All port workers are required to have had two doses by 1 February 2022 and there will be a requirement to declare vaccination status to access all secure areas managed by Fremantle Ports.
Port workers will have to produce evidence of their vaccination status if directed to do so by an emergency officer, or a nominated officer of the Department of Transport / Port Authority or if required to do so by their employer.
Certain exemptions are available e.g. for medical exemptions, or temporary exemptions if a worker has been vaccinated overseas with a vaccine not approved by the Australian TGA, or if the worker lives in an area where vaccine availability is limited.
If a worker chooses not to get vaccinated, and does not have a vaccination, then he or she will not be able to enter the port.
Further details about the WA vaccine mandate can be obtained from Fremantle Ports.
