Victorian businesses urged to bring back employees to workplaces

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is urging businesses to start bringing back employees to the workplace as the state government lifts its work-from-home recommendations.

"We strongly encourage businesses to have the conversation with their staff and make appropriate arrangements," said Paul Gerra, chief executive of the chamber, in a statement.

The Victoria government lifted its work-from-home recommendations for businesses last week, citing the end of winter and declining COVID-19 cases across the state.

"With spring now here and case numbers and hospitalisations declining significantly, more people may want to get back into the office – and back out to the cafes, shops, and bars in busy professional precincts across the state," said Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas in a statement.

"Lifting the work from home recommendation is in line with current public health advice – we encourage employers and employees to have a conversation about what's right for their individual needs."

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The chamber welcomed the announcement from the state government, describing it as a "positive step" that would pave for employees' safe return to workplaces.

"It will also provide a welcome boost for Melbourne's CBD (central business district) and regional cities as we head into spring. This will give Victorians confidence to embrace both business and social opportunities again," said Guerra.

Despite this, employers are still told to "consider remote working arrangements that are most appropriate for their workplace and employees based on individual requirements." When planning an office return, employers and workers are also urged to consider Occupational Health and Safety requirements and compliance to mandatory COVID-19 requirements.

According to the Victorian government, a regularly reviewed COVIDSafe Plan must also be in place across businesses with on-site operations to ensure the safety of staff. In the event that an employee exhibits symptoms of COVID-19, the said worker should take a rapid antigen test and remain at home.

In terms of vaccine mandates, employees regardless of where they work are encouraged to remain up to date with the vaccines. They are also urged to wear a good quality mask and maintain good ventilation while indoors.