COVID-19 Information (News)
The Seafarers Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Authority (Seacare Authority) understands that the current COVID-19 pandemic presents significant challenges for stakeholders in the Seacare Scheme.
The Seacare Authority will be taking all necessary and reasonable precautions to minimise the risk of spread of COVID-19 through its operations and activities.
We encourage you to email us at seacare@comcare.gov.au if you have any questions.
The Seacare Authority is closely monitoring the evolving situation and is focussing on the health, safety and wellbeing of workers and employers.
The Seacare Authority encourages workers and employers to work together to find appropriate solutions that suit the needs of individual workplaces and staff. This may include taking different forms of leave or taking extra precautions in the workplace.
If you require information about the COVID-19 virus itself, quarantine requirements and other risk management measures, please visit the Australian Government’s department of Health website or the Australia.gov.au website.
Further advice regarding implications of COVID-19 for the Maritime Industry and the management of associated risks can be found on the AMSA website.
If you have an issue relating to specific safety requirements or practices at your workplace, including in relation to COVID-19, please contact the relevant state or territory safety regulator. Resources are also available on the Comcare website. This page also includes helpful information in relation to considerations employer and workers should have when working from home.
Employees should contact their employer immediately if they are unable to attend work because they cannot return from overseas or are required to enter quarantine because of the coronavirus.
For information about your workplace entitlements and obligations if you’re affected by the outbreak of coronavirus, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website.
The Australian Government has also developed a COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme to reimburse people who suffer a moderate to significant impact following an adverse reaction to an approved vaccine. More information:
- COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme - Department of Health
- Frequently asked questions
- COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme - Services Australia
The Seacare Authority continues to monitor the latest information regarding COVID-19. As knowledge about the COVID-19 virus and the management of associated risks is constantly evolving, and government requirements and restrictions are developing, we strongly recommend that employers and employees remain vigilant in ensuring they act in accordance with the latest information.