Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest said today that the success of the vaccination program in the construction industry should be a model for how the government can look at opening up other industries and getting people back to work.
“The success has been driven by the opportunity to be safe from COVID and return to work (albeit at 50% of worksite capacity). Office workers, local and state government employees, all retail staff, service providers, hospitality staff including those who work in bars, cafés and restaurants, tourism operators can all benefit from this approach.
Urban Taskforce supports the Government’s unequivocal efforts and support for getting as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible.
“The property development and construction sector has shown the way as the first non-health or care related sector to effectively mandate vaccinations for those that wish to work on construction sites.
“The “Super Sunday” which focussed on vaccination of construction workers at Olympic Park was an outstanding success. The lockdowns are tough for our industry and are tough for everyone. The link between being declared an “authorised worker” allowed to leave locked down LGAs for construction work and getting vaccinated offers a clear pathway for economic recovery and for the vaccination of our population.
“While many have expressed concerns over these new rules, the industry recognises that this is the only way forward. As vaccines become more available, a clear link between vaccinations and work or other participation in community activities must be drawn with the support of a clear Health Order.
“The Government’s progress in getting vaccination rates up has been outstanding. But due to the shortages, it has come way too late.
“The Berejiklian Government is focussed on getting all authorised workers vaccinated, getting all vulnerable groups vaccinated, and getting the rest of the NSW population vaccinated. The property development and construction industry welcomes this focus and supports the government’s efforts to get the economy back on track”, Mr Forrest said.
