Assisted by Francesca Zappia
The surge in Omicron cases has greatly affected Australia's
health system, logistics, agricultural and retail sectors due to
staff shortages in the workplace. Until recently, all employees who
have tested positive to COVID-19 must self-isolate at home, meaning
businesses across Australia are dealing with unprecedented
disruptions to their workforce. In an attempt to alleviate pressure
on supply chains, health care, childcare and education, the NSW
Government has provided exemption from self-isolation requirements
for workers in critical sectors.
In a further effort to combat this rising issue, Prime Minister
Scott Morrison announced on 19 January 2022 a $55 million visa
package to lure international students and workers back to
Australia. The rebate program will allow up to 150,000
international students and 23,500 backpackers with existing visas
who have not yet travelled to Australia, to receive a rebate on
their visa application
