There have been a number of recent announcements regarding vaccination requirements for interstate travel that may impact farmers moving freight across state borders:
Entry into Victoria with Specified Worker (Multiple Entry) Permit
From 23 September, freight workers entering Victoria with Specified Worker (Multiple Entry) Permits (and their employer) will need to provide evidence of at least one vaccination or evidence from a medical practitioner that an exemption applies to them.
SA/ Vic Border:
As at 12.01am Monday 27 September 2021, commercial transport and freight workers arriving by road must have evidence of at least one TGA approved COVID-19 vaccination.
Priority vaccinations for eligible freight workers
Freight workers with Specified Worker (Multiple Entry) Permits receive priority bookings for free COVID-19 vaccinations, even if they are not a Victorian resident.
Permit holders must call 1800 675 398 to book in at any state vaccination centre and advise the operator that you are a Commercial Freight Worker for a priority booking.
Freight workers from extreme risk / red zones:
Permit holders that have been to an extreme risk / red zone in the past 14 days must book into a red zone clinic for their vaccination.
Red zone clinics are located at:
• Melbourne Showgrounds
• Sunshine
• Sandown Racecourse
• Ford Campbellfield
• Wangaratta
Priority bookings are only available via the Coronavirus hotline on 1800 675 398
The requirements are changing quickly so we would urge members to consult the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator’s latest advice by clicking here before crossing the border.
The VFF continues to advocate for fair border rules and improved access at the borders to testing and is working with the Victorian Transport Association to progress our shared priorities for the freight industry.
-VFF