PSA backs calls for COVID tax breaks

FINANCIAL supports need to be introduced by the Federal Government to support pharmacy and other health workers who are separating themselves from their families to mitigate against the risk of spreading COVID-19, the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) believes.

PSA National President, Dr Chris Freeman, raised the issue during a COVID-19 webinar last night, following questions from delegates.

“A colleague of mine who works in a rural location has had to separate himself from his young family because one of his children, who is newly born, had a few medical conditions,” Freeman said.

“He said he didn’t want to expose his wife and family by potentially bringing that home to them, so he’s chosen to seek alternative accommodation.

“He’s having to pay that accommodation cost out of his pocket to simply protect his family.

“So I absolutely agree [there should be something.

“[Financial support] measures that have been introduced recently are welcomed, but they don’t directly trickle down to the front line health staff in terms of their increased costs, the stress and pressure that they are facing on the front line.

“There should be ways in which either tax concessions at an individual level could be implemented so those front line health staff feel more supported, or as some states have already implemented, funds [should be made available] for short-term accommodation for front line health staff who have had to separate themselves from their families.”

Meanwhile, an online petition has been circulated calling on the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, and Federal Health Minister, Greg Hunt, to provide a “hazard allowance” and a tax break for pharmacy workers.

The petition launched by Queensland-based pharmacist, Pardeep Singh, notes that “while most doctors are consulting online through telehealth and have closed their doors, we remain open”.

“It is a very difficult time and it seems like we are forgotten healthcare professionals, and completely sidelined by the general public, media and Government,” she said.

“While we appreciate that the Government is protecting those that have lost their jobs since the very beginning of this pandemic, increasing payments of others, giving supports where available, the Government is forgetting pharmacists and pharmacy workers who must turn up to work at front line to potentially save the lives of others.

“Therefore, pharmacy healthcare workers should get hazard allowance and tax-free income during the Covid-19 crisis.”

CLICK HERE to view the petition.