Queensland Health (QH) has decided to revoke its COVID-19 vaccination mandate, drawing sharp criticism from the state’s nursing union. 

One of the state's most influential unions, the Queensland Nurses and Midwives' Union (QNMU), argues that the decision has neglected the psychological well-being of its members.

Vaccine mandates were introduced in September 2021 for QH workers, permitting exemptions for medical or religious reasons, as well as exceptional circumstances.

Kate Veach, secretary of the Queensland Nurses and Midwives' Union, has voiced deep concern over the planned repeal of the mandate. 

“This is not enough time to genuinely assess the safety and wellbeing of QH staff – or adequately assess more than 1,400 pieces of feedback received during the consultation period and then implement the appropriate controls to reduce risk,” Ms Veach said in a statement.

“It appears QH's consideration of the psychosocial risk facing their workforce is an afterthought, despite claims the health and safety of their staff is the priority.”

Complaints have arisen, alleging that unvaccinated workers remained on paid leave for months after the mandate's introduction, while their vaccinated colleagues continued working under exceedingly challenging conditions for the same compensation.

Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding potential workplace discord when unvaccinated workers return to their former positions.

Ms Veach acknowledged these mixed feelings among frontline workers and called on Queensland Health to fully adhere to the 'Managing the risk of psychosocial hazards at work Code of Practice' before implementing any changes.

“Of all the initiatives QH has undertaken, this change should have been allocated appropriate time, assessment, implementation and evaluation to properly recognise, value and support tens of thousands of QH staff,” she said.

Queensland Health says that the decision to revoke the mandate was based on advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI).

Ms Veach has reiterated the QNMU's support for public health measures in line with ATAGI guidance but insisted that the safety and well-being of nurses, midwives, and all health workers must remain paramount. 

She stressed the need for a thorough assessment of the psychological safety of QH employees before the vaccine mandate is lifted.

Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman has defended the decision, citing support from key stakeholders and the World Health Organization's declaration that the pandemic had ended. 

She maintains that the majority of health staff favour the move and downplayed concerns about potential conflicts.

Acting director-general of QH, Michael Walsh, noted that disciplinary actions were still ongoing for some employees who had failed to comply with the mandate, with cases being addressed individually.