Call for supply chain workers to be on COVID-19 vaccine priority list

Several organisations are making a nationwide call for supply chain workers to be among those prioritised to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. 

In a statement, the Australian Logistics Council (ALC), along with Ports Australia and the Australian Airports Association, are calling to prioritise supply chain workers to receive the COVID-19 vaccine given their role in supporting one of Australia’s largest essential industries. 

ALC CEO Kirk Coningham stressed the necessity of this, saying that Australian supply chain workers have done an amazing job in limiting the spread of the disease.  

He continued that prioritising vaccine delivery will help ensure the natural vector of the supply chain remains disease free. 

“Australians consumers have not forgotten the shock of empty supermarkets shelves and the panic buying that disrupted most of 2020,” Coningham said.  

“Australian supply chain workers are among the unsung COVID heroes during 2020. They play a critical role in supporting our communities and prioritising their safety to ensure they can continue to deliver is a must once the vaccine is available,” he maintained.  

Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher also expressed support for the call, further explaining why supply chain workers need to be prioritised.  

“Working on the front line – whether it be on a port, airport, ship, truck or train – means you’re coming into contact with high volumes of people and essential freight,” Gallacher said.  

“Prioritising the health of supply chain workers helps prioritise the security of the supply chain and safety of Australian communities.” 

The ALC supports calls for the Government to consult with industry to ensure that a fair and considered approach to roll out the vaccine nationwide for the Australian Supply Chain industry is implemented. 

In another statement, the ALC also strengthened its call for state movement on the national logistics industry with its presentation of the Scorecard on the implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy to Transport Minister Michael McCormack.

Source: ALC