COVID-19 vaccinations will soon be mandatory for at-risk WA port workers, with the state government also announcing the Moderna vaccine is being made available at almost 500 pharmacies.
The new mandatory vaccination rule will apply to all commercial ports in Western Australia, affecting any workers who access an “exposed vessel” coming from overseas.
From October 15, port workers will need to have had at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to access ships or interact with crew members that have been to a port outside Australia.
These workers will need to be fully vaccinated by November 12.
WA Health will set up a pop-up vaccination clinic at Fremantle Port on September 30 to make it easier for workers to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
In a statement, Ports Minister Rita Saffioti said the move was aimed at keeping workers safe and the ports operating.
“WA has 22 port facilities overseen by five port authorities and the Department of Transport, managing huge numbers of ships, cargo and crew every week,” she said.
“We all know the risk posed by COVID-19 and it is logical we would try to protect anyone on the frontline.”
The announcement comes on a day where hundreds of protesters continue to march through Melbourne.
Protesters shouting anti-vaccination messages have caused violent scenes in the Victorian capital in recent days as the construction industry reacted to a snap two-week shutdown.
Mandatory jab for construction workers ‘discussed’
When asked at a press briefing today, Health Minister Roger Cook would not rule out mandatory vaccinations for construction workers in WA.
“It really comes down to the advice of the Chief Health Officer,” he said.
“I have discussed it [the construction industry] with him.
“I think it is fair to say he is looking at it. But we are looking at a range of measures where we might achieve the same outcome.”
Mr Cook said he wanted to sit down with representatives of the construction industry, keen to avoid the situation unfolding in Victoria.
“We only want to put in a mandatory arrangement where it is absolutely necessary and where there is a perceived public health risk,” he said.
The WA government has already made vaccination mandatory for aged care workers and announced all health workers will need to be vaccinated by next year.
Mandatory vaccination for the mining industry is also under consideration.
Moderna available in WA pharmacies
Mr Cook also announced today that the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine was now available at West Australian pharmacies for anyone over the age of 12.
He said 471 pharmacists across the state would be able to offer the vaccine, with 100 pharmacies already receiving Moderna stocks.
“Moderna is a great vaccine and has been used right across the globe,” he said.
“There is really no excuse now for West Australians not to do the right thing and get themselves vaccinated.”
To find a WA pharmacy offering the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, people can visit the Australian Government’s Vaccine Clinic Finder or findapharmacy.