Eighteen months ago, entire cities were shut down as people were told to stay-at-home to prevent a deadly spread of coronavirus
Can a boss force employees to get the jab?
Fast forward to 2021, and over 5 billion have received a COVID-19 vaccination.
Now, as people shift from their working at home lifestyle and back into their offices, companies are mandating the vaccine for their workers.
Google, Disney and Walmart are among a growing list of companies that are mandating the COVID vaccine for their staff.
There are some exceptions for people with medical or religious reasons.
The aviation sector is also preparing to take-off again, and staff at United and Qantas will be subject to a vaccine before they take to the skies.
2020 research from Germany shows about half of all residents are in favor, and half are against, a mandatory vaccination policy.
Meanwhile, a University of Sydney study from earlier this year shows up to 75 percent of Australians would support a government requirement to be vaccinated to work, travel or study
Ian Neil is an Australian barrister, who says there’s a fine line for businesses who are thinking about mandating the vaccine.
As controversial as it may seem, Ian believe the legal arguments stack up.
With people lining up to get vaccinated, and aching to return to life as we once knew it, it seems like more companies will begin heading in the same direction.
Costa is a news producer at ticker NEWS. He has previously worked as a regional journalist at the Southern Highlands Express newspaper. He also has several years' experience in the fire and emergency services sector, where he has worked with researchers, policymakers and local communities. He has also worked at the Seven Network during their Olympic Games coverage and in the ABC Melbourne newsroom.
He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Professional), with expertise in journalism, politics and international relations. His other interests include colonial legacies in the Pacific, counter-terrorism, aviation and travel.
The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates by a quarter-point, bringing the benchmark rate to a range of 4.5% to 4.75%, as economic growth continues but job gains slow.
The Fed noted that labour market conditions have “generally eased,” even with low unemployment, signalling a more cautious approach amid a stable economic expansion.
The statement marks a shift in Fed language, now saying inflation has “made progress” toward the 2% goal instead of the prior “further progress.”
With inflation holding steady around 2.6%, policymakers aim to keep economic risks balanced, despite pressures from slower job growth.
This rate cut reflects a strategic move to sustain economic momentum while cautiously watching inflation’s gradual trend toward the Fed’s target.
The decision was unanimous, aligning Fed priorities with a balanced approach to support both employment and price stability.