Coronavirus and Australian workplace laws

We're here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities at work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The information on this website covers workplace laws, obligations and entitlements for employers and employees:

  • affected by coronavirus (COVID-19)
  • seeking COVID-19 vaccination guidance
  • covered by awards varied by the Fair Work Commission during coronavirus.

We encourage employees and employers to work together to find solutions that suit their individual workplaces and circumstances.

Check out our News and updates section to see what's been updated recently.

COVID-19 vaccinations and the workplace

When workplaces shut quickly because of a lockdown

Pay, leave and stand downs

Returning to work and the workplace

Health and safety in the workplace

Alternative work arrangements

Ending employment and redundancy

Changes to workplace laws during coronavirus

Help during coronavirus

News and updates

23 December 2021

Extension of unpaid pandemic leave (Schedule X) in many awards

The Fair Work Commission has extended the entitlement to unpaid pandemic leave under Schedule X in many awards from 31 December 2021 until 30 June 2022.

The extension applies to 74 awards, including the Mobile Crane Award. For more information, go to Unpaid pandemic leave in awards.

Previous news and updates

To view a list of previous updates to our website, go to our Previous news and updates page.

About our information

We'll continue to update the information on our website as the situation develops and as needed. The information provided is current as at the time of the last update. It is not legal advice but represents the views of the Fair Work Ombudsman based on the best available information. We encourage you to regularly check this page for more information.