COVID-19 Update and Member Poll
Dear MRNSW Members & Staff,
New restrictions for authorised workers commence 6 September 2021, which mean if you are over the age of 16 and live in or are temporarily staying in a Local Government Area (LGA) of concern, you must not leave your local government area for work unless you have:
- had at least 1 dose of a COVID-19 vaccine or
- evidence of a medical exemption
These requirements do not apply to authorised workers before 6 September 2021.
Authorised workers who are unable to have a COVID-19 vaccine can request a COVID-19 vaccination exemption for medical reasons.
MRNSW operational response remains our main priority regardless of vaccine requirements and travel restrictions.
MRNSW staff and members are authorised workers when carrying out your duties and need to be vaccinated or have an exemption:
- If you are over 16 and live in a LGA of concern, and
- Need to leave your area to undertake MRNSW duties as staff or volunteer,
Being vaccinated means having at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to provide proof of vaccination?
It is a requirement to carry evidence of your vaccination or medical exemption and produce that evidence if requested by your workplace or Police Officer.
Evidence of your vaccination can include your online immunisation history statement or
COVID-19 digital certificate from the Australian Immunisation Register.
Evidence of your medical exemption must be from a medical practitioner in the form approved by the NSW Chief Health Officer.
What if I can’t be vaccinated?
If you are unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons then you require an exemption. If you are unable to get an appointment and you live in an LGA of concern, as an authorised worker you can get a priority vaccination appointment.
What if I choose not to be vaccinated?
Under the NSW Public Health Order it is a requirement for authorised workers in LGAs of concern to be vaccinated. Leaving a LGA of concern to undertake MRNSW duties may mean you are in breach of the Public Health order.
What other travel requirements exist for authorised workers?
If you live in Greater Sydney, you may need to register when travelling for work outside of Greater Sydney.
When will MRNSW adjust the Risk Protocols to allow training and fundraising?
MRNSW remains on level 3 risk protocols which restricts certain activities. Case by case exemptions are being granted to units for essential training to ensure we maintain our frontline safety services for the boaters of NSW. As soon as we can get back to reduced restrictions to allow many of the administrative and fundraising functions we will.