Why Albo could pull massive backflip

A backflip could be on the cards for Anthony Albanese as unions and state colleagues line up to slam a decision to cut pandemic leave for casual workers.

The $750 pandemic leave payment was given to casuals who were unable to work due to Covid-19 isolation, but the scheme ceased on June 30.

The scheme has come at a $1.9bn cost since its introduction by the previous government.

The Prime Minister had been under pressure from the unions to reinstate the payment, amid fears sick casuals would continue to show up to work.

NSW Labor leader Chris Minns broke ranks on Thursday, publicly calling for the government to reverse its decision.

“I think there needs to be an urgent rethink of the $750 payment from the federal government for those who have been struck at home with the Covid-19 illness,” Mr Minns told reporters in Sydney.

“This payment is probably the price that we need to pay in order to deal with living with Covid over the next 12 months.

“It’s a difficult decision, and I understand it is hotly contested by the federal government, but we have to make sure we make common sense decisions.”

Mr Minns revealed he had not made his position known to either Mr Albanese or Health Minister Mark Butler before putting it on the record.

Speaking later, Aged Care Minister Anika Wells tried to double down on the government’s position, but conceded “all options” are on the table, pending medical advice.

“(It) is a decision we have inherited,” she told reporters in Brisbane.

“It is best to put the money where it is best targeted. The CMO says the best use of money is on vaccinations and antiviral treatments in aged care.” Hospitals and healthcare workers across the country are struggling under immense pressure of increased admissions amid the current Covid-19 wave. There are more than 4400 Australians in hospital receiving treatment, with 137 in ICU beds.