Money

Telstra becomes first Aussie telco to mandate COVID jab

Published

3 years ago

September 7, 2021

Anthony Lucas

Australia’s biggest telco, Telstra has announced it plans to mandate the COVID vaccine amongst its workforce

The telco giant plans to mandate COVID-19 vaccinations for 8,300 frontline staff.

The mandate though, is in defiance of the Business Council of Australia’s stance that employers should only take this step with the backing of government health orders.

The telco giant stated that it would require about a third of its workforce to be vaccinated, and had commenced a one-week consultation period with staff, unions and partners ahead of what will be one of corporate Australia’s largest mandatory vaccination drives.

We need to focus on rebuilding #hope and the sooner we do the better. That’s a role for everyone. #letsvaxx https://t.co/Ur3F4Obswt
— Andrew Penn (@andy_penn) September 1, 2021

Telstra now faces a showdown with unions over the proposal

Telstra boss Andy Penn says that the vaccine requirement would apply to about 8300 workers but not those who could work from home or were outside Australia.

The telco is facing potential legal challenges, however, after chief executive Andy Penn said in a letter to employees that those who refuse the vaccine may be forced into ‘‘medical retirement’’.

“This policy would make getting vaccinated a requirement for roles where they are in regular contact with customers, the public or other employees, such as our frontline and business-critical teams, and those who need to visit customer premises at times,”

Telstra is now the fourth company to mandate Covid-19 vaccinations, joining SPC – which was the first business to force employees to get the jab, as well as major airline Qantas and Australia’s second-biggest private hospital operator, Healthscope.

Virgin Australia, the second largest airline in Australia is still to confirm its vaccine mandate.

Money

China has pledged to “significantly increase” debt to jumpstart its economy

Published

18 hours ago

October 14, 2024

ticker NEWS

Finance Minister Lan Foan announced plans to help local governments tackle debt, support low-income households, and boost the property market.

Investors have been urging such steps as China faces deflationary pressures and a sharp property market downturn.

However, no figure was provided for the stimulus package, leaving markets anxious about the strength and duration of the recovery effort.

Economists warn that this lack of clarity may prolong uncertainty until China’s legislature approves extra debt measures.

Concerns are rising that China may fall short of its 5% growth target, signalling deeper structural challenges ahead.

Leaders

Niche accountants proving essential to e-commerce success

Published

6 days ago

October 9, 2024

ticker NEWS

Expert explores the key benefits of partnering with accountants who specialise in niche industries.

In today’s fast-paced digital world, having an accountant who understands the intricacies of e-commerce can make all the difference in your business’s success.

Specialist accountants understand the specific needs of e-commerce businesses, helping to maximise tax savings, streamline operations, and improve financial health.

Niche accountants can identify opportunities to scale, optimise profit margins, and implement strategies that align with your business goals, ultimately drive growth.

Chris Rivera, Founder of The Ecommerce Accountants, joins to share his key insights into the industry.

#featured

Money

Amazon’s 2024 Prime Day expected to make huge impact on tech sector sales

Published

6 days ago

October 9, 2024

ticker NEWS

Market experts believe Amazon’s upcoming event will drive a surge in sales, benefiting Amazon’s stock and boosting consumer tech companies that sell through its platform.

Experts predict that a short-term rally in retail and tech stocks could be seen as revenue spikes.

Founder/CEO of Unearthing Opportunities, and Board Advisor to Power Hero, Bradley A Gastwirth joins to unpack the latest market moves. #featured #trending