ACT Covid-19 lockdown statement by the Australian Public Service Commissioner, Peter Woolcott AO

This afternoon the ACT Government announced a seven day lockdown in the ACT in response to a confirmed COVID-19 case. APS agencies and their employees in the ACT will be moving to working from home arrangements for many of their employees, although there will continue to be others, such as many at Services Australia, who will continue to work from their usual workplaces to deliver essential services.

There is a range of information on the APSC website available to assist agencies and their employees. Ultimately decisions about working from home or usual workplaces will be a matter for each agency head, taking into account operational requirements and the ability to continue serving Government and the public.

The Chief Operating Officers’ Committee met this afternoon to discuss these developments, with a focus on business continuity, the safety and wellbeing of employees, and ensuring essential public services continue to be delivered.

The APS has become adept at remote work over the course of the pandemic and has been doing so at various locations and times over the past 18 months. We will continue to work for the Australian public and Government, and ensure that their expectations and needs are met.

I thank APS agencies and our people for their cooperation and flexibility. Your efforts are much valued and appreciated.