Is it lawful for employers to introduce and enforce mandatory vaccinations?
Not really, except in specific industries.
The Australian Government’s policy is that vaccination against COVID-19 is voluntary, yet strongly encourages Australians to be vaccinated.
The Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO), and Safe Work Australia (SWA) have provided specific guidance on this issue stating that in some circumstances it may be reasonable for an employer to require an employee to receive the vaccination as a condition of employment. Factors to assist in determining the appropriateness of this include the nature of the employer’s industry, how this would impact the employee’s work, work health and safety obligations, the lawfulness and reasonableness of the employer’s directions and any public health orders from government bodies.