Workforce and employee support

As a small business owner and operator you may have to make some changes, and some difficult decisions, for your business, yourself and your employees.

You may need to ensure that all staff are complying with current business and social restrictions within the workplace, or to set them up to work from home (see our information on technology). You may need to ask them to take leave, stand them down for a period of time, or end their employment.

It can be very overwhelming and stressful, and it’s important that, as a small business, you provide the support that you can, while ensuring that you meet your obligations (and take care of your own health and wellbeing).

Tools and resources

Fair Work coronavirus page

The Fair Work page outlines an employee’s rights and responsibilities.

Coronavirus Tasmanian Government website: employers’ information

Coronavirus.tas.gov.au has a list of regularly updated information and FAQ-style advice for employers.

Centrelink’s payment and service finder tool

You can use the tool to check whether you or your staff are eligible for assistance.

Medicare sickness allowance

If your employee is unwell, they may be able to access sickness allowance

Services Australia’s assistance for those affected by coronavirus

How to access of enquire about support benefits.

Mental health support

This is a difficult time for everyone with so much change and uncertainty. It’s important to encourage your employees to access help, and to seek it yourself if you feel like you need it.