COVID-19 Resources

The community services sector plays a crucial role in looking after our community. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, WACOSS played a key role and worked together with our members, other WA human service peak bodies and the WA Government, to keep our communities safe. 

While COVID-19 is no longer the threat that it once was, it is still an active virus in our communities and can have an impact on people who contract the virus.

For the latest WA Government information and advice, visit wa.gov.au/government/coronavirus-covid-19.

If you suspect you may have COVID-19 and would like further guidance, you can call the Australian Government Department of Health Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080.

Can an employer require an employee to be vaccinated?

Information on workplaces and employers requiring mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations is available on the Fair Work Ombudsman website. 

FWO states that employers can only require their employees to be vaccinated where:

  • a specific law (such as a state or territory public health order) requires it
  • the requirement is permitted by an enterprise agreement, other registered agreement or employment contract, or
  • they give their employees a lawful and reasonable direction to be vaccinated. Whether a direction is lawful and reasonable is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Read more on the Fair Work Ombudsman website under ‘Can an employer require an employee to be vaccinated’?

Community Sector Preparedness

The Department of Communities free Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) distribution program concluded in October 2023. 

RATs are available for purchase through supermarkets, pharmacies and other retailers, and they are still important in the early detection of COVID-19 and receiving antiviral medication. 

Alternatively, a referral can be obtained from a general practitioner for a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test via a pathology clinic. Hospitals and other health services can also perform COVID-19 testing on patients who are unwell and have symptoms of COVID-19. 

COVID-19 Vaccination

Vaccination against the COVID-19 virus remains one of the best ways to protect you from the impact of the virus. 

The Western Australian Government provides information about Vaccines, and links to Australian Government health information. 

Australian Government Recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses
WA Government COVID-19 Coronavirus Vaccines information