Support for Western Australians impacted by COVID-19 isolation

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Western Australians can access help, including financial support, if impacted by COVID-19 isolation requirements.
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The COVID-19 reinfection time has been reduced to four weeks (28 days).

You need to test again if you have recovered and experience new symptoms after 28 days. If you test positive, you must isolate for 7 days or longer until symptoms resolve.

The list below is a quick guide to understand some of the ways you can receive support.

WA Government’s COVID-19 Test and Isolation payment

This is a single payment of $320 for Western Australian workers who are isolating, can’t work from home, and can’t access paid leave. Visit COVID-19 Test Isolation Payment Scheme WA (external link) for more information.

Federal Government’s Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment

The Federal Government offers a lump sum Pandemic Leave Disaster Payment (external link) to help while you can’t work because you’re isolating or caring for someone who has to isolate due to COVID-19. You can receive up to $750 depending on how many hours of work you lost.

Federal Government’s Crisis Payment for National Health Emergency (COVID-19)

This is a one-off payment if you have been affected by COVID-19. There are several conditions you have to meet (external link) to receive this payment. The support is equal to a week’s pay at the minimum basic rate of your income support or ABSTUDY Living Allowance.

Support for businesses

Businesses can access a range of information and financial support options (external link) to manage disruptions because of COVID-19. Businesses are encouraged to support working from home arrangements for workers, where possible.

Free RATs for the WA community

The WA free RAT program means the community can access free Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) to ease cost of living pressures and support regular COVID-19 testing.

Looking after your mental health

It’s important to remember to look after your mental health during this time. Think Mental Health (external link) has information about coping with anxiety, dealing with financial worry, and how to talk about COVID-19 with your children.

Some members of our community have additional needs or are at higher risk. You can find more specialised information to help suit your needs.