Western Australia – Prison or Fine for Harrasing Workers Checking Vaccine Certificate

Strict laws were passed in Western Australia, which could lead to people getting jailed or fined if they try to threaten, intimidate or offend officials when being asked for proof of vaccination.

The new rules, which came into effect from 31 January, bar people who are over the age of 16 and without a double dose of Covid19 approved vaccination from entering gyms, hospitals, schools and other hospitality and entertainment venues.

Any person found guilty of confronting or fighting with staff, including shop assistants and hotel waiters, when asked to produce vaccination proof, may end up in prison or may have to pay a fine which could go up to $50,000.

Shop Distributive and Allied Employees’ Association Secretary of State Peter O’Keefe said the sanctions were a “significant deterrent to anyone likely to go after a shop assistant just to get their work done.”

The Prime Minister posted on social media that the aim of the vaccination certificate was to ensure the safety of everydone during the pandemic.

“There’s never an excuse to be rude to staff – not now, never ever. It’s not the Western Australian way,” said the Prime Minister.

Meanwhile strong protests against the state’s vaccine mandate have taken place across the city on Monday. Anti-wax protestors, during peak rush hour, brought Mitchell Freeway to a standstill by blocking all four southern lanes with their vehicles. Protesters had also gathered outside Duma House in West Perth, which has offices of a large number of ministers.