News | 13 August

Under the current Stage 4 restrictions, those Permitted Businesses continuing to operate, should take a moment for pause and consider the potential penalties associated with breaches of said restrictions. As a community, anxiety has increased around COVID-19 & there is considerable scrutiny being focused on the Building & Construction Industry. It is important, now more than ever to ensure Consultation and Communication with your workforce, about the consequences for breaches of Stage 4 Restrictions.

What are the penalties for noncompliance?

For any such serious breaches Victoria Police can issue on the spot fines of up to $1,652  for individuals and up to $9,913  for businesses for:  

  • Refusing or failing to comply with the emergency directions
  • Refusing or failing to comply with a public health risk power direction
  • Refusing or failing to comply with the Public Health Directions to provide information.

Fines of up to $20,000 for individuals and $100,000 for businesses are possible through the court system.

Individuals who do not wear a face covering and do not have a lawful reason can be fined $200.

The biggest potential for serious breaches, as I see it; would be under the ‘Permitted Worker Scheme’, whereby worker fail to carry, or indeed misuse the Permitted Worker Permit.

Particularly if they were to attempt to use the permit to circumvent the 8pm-5am curfew.

For this reason, it is recommended that through consultation with your workforce, that you seek written acknowledgement (signoff) from your employees; that they have read, understood and agree to be bound by the requirements. It is through this documented evidence of due diligence, that you may mitigate the potential for significant court imposed (Employer) fines.

What are the penalties for noncompliance? Visit:

https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/search/stage%204%20restriction%20penalties

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