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Home >News >Attacking healthcare workers will not end lockdowns. Vaccinations will.

Attacking healthcare workers will not end lockdowns. Vaccinations will.

2021-09-23

We are disgusted to hear reports of healthcare workers being spat at and harassed by protestors in Melbourne’s CBD. 


Healthcare workers across a range of industries have sacrificed their personal lives, worked overtime in full PPE, and put themselves at risk to ensure the health and safety of all Victorians during this difficult time.


Occupational violence and aggression are unacceptable in all workplaces. Healthcare workers—including HACSU members working in mental health, disability and alcohol and other drugs— are subject to enough instances of violence as it is. It has been upsetting for our members to witness this footage, as they know the lasting effect of aggression in the workplace.


Targeting our fellow healthcare workers tasked with delivering one of the most crucial protections against the COVID-19 pandemic is a disgrace. HACSU members stand in solidarity with those workers and wish to offer them support and appreciation for their work thus far as we are one, united healthcare family.


We are disappointed that hubs were forced to shut today, particularly for the most vulnerable in our community whose only option is to receive a vaccination at a State-run clinic. Many HACSU members working in mental health and alcohol and other drugs work directly with people facing homelessness, and members are deeply concerned that the actions of these violent protesters have impacted a group already disproportionately affected during the COVID-19 pandemic.


The most important collective action that the Victorian community can take is to get vaccinated. All healthcare workers must be afforded the dignity and respect to continue their vital work safely and without disruption.  


Unions stand for safety. Always. 


Media Contact: comms@hacsu.asn.au

 

Download a copy of this statement here.