By Laura Michell
Hundreds of Hume council employees have been stood down as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact council services.
Council chief executive Domenic Isola confirmed to Star Weekly that 300 casual staff have been temporarily stood down.
Mr Isola said it was a “difficult decision”, which was the result of state and federal government restrictions requiring council to close a number of services and facilities.
“The coronavirus is having a devastating impact on our community, and Hume City Council as an organisation is not immune,” he said.
“We have had to close our leisure centres, libraries, community facilities and learning centres … and we anticipate that more facilities may need to close as we all do our bit to fight against the spread [of COVID-19].
“We are providing daily updates to our staff as the situation evolves.”
Mr Isola said affected staff would be provided with a special payment of two weeks’ pay and would be able to access their long service leave entitlements during the stand down period.
It comes as the council continues to look for ways to keep services running during the lockdown.
The Sunbury Aquatic and Leisure Centre is streaming regular group fitness classes, while Hume libraries are offering online storytime sessions via Facebook.
The council has also created an advice hub to provide information and support for local bsuinesses.
Details: hume.vic.gov.au
