Supply chain workers are calling to be among healthcare employees as prioritised people to receive the COVID-19 vaccine given their role in supporting one of Australia’s largest essential industries.
The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) supports calls from Ports Australia and the Australian Airports Association that all supply chain workers must be prioritised for the first roll out of the COVID-19 vaccine.
“Prioritising vaccine delivery will help ensure the natural vector of the supply chain remains disease free.” said Kirk Coningham, CEO of the ALC.
“Australian supply chain workers are among the unsung COVID heroes during 2020. They play a critical role in supporting our communities and prioritising their safety to ensure they can continue to deliver is a must once the vaccine is available.”
Ports Australia’s CEO, Mike Gallacher further supports why supply chain workers need to be prioritised.
“Working on the front line – whether it be on a port, airport, ship, truck or train – means you’re coming into contact with high volumes of people and essential freight. Prioritising the health of supply chain workers helps prioritise the security of the supply chain and safety of Australian communities,” he said.
“Australians consumers have not forgotten the shock of empty supermarkets shelves and the panic buying that disrupted most of 2020,” Kirk said.
The ALC supports calls for the Government to consult with industry to ensure that a fair and considered approach to roll out the vaccine nationwide for the Australian Supply Chain industry is implemented.