Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates & Resources for SLSNSW Clubs

As of 23 February 2022, it will be a requirement for any Frontline Volunteer Patrolling activity, Support Operations activity or training, assessing and facilitating activity that the Member must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, unless they have been granted an exemption by SLSNSW in accordance with this policy.

Vaccination must be undertaken on the advice of an accredited health practitioner (including health practitioners at any authorised COVID-19 vaccination centres). All those undertaking these activities will be required to provide evidence acceptable to SLSNSW of being fully vaccinated.

The NSW Premier has recently relaxed the arrangements regarding COVID19, essentially stating that key agencies could consider another position other than that of mandate (with the exception of Health Workers and Aged Care Workers), as long as the agency/organisation was addressing its WHS obligations. The SLSNSW Board directed the SLSNSW CEO to commence a review of our position based on the above, and review and update the original Risk Matrix that informed the mandate decision, then seek legal position regarding what, how and if any changes are required to be made.

The review is currently underway, and we hope to communicate a position to the membership before the cessation of the winter period, to allow appropriate preparation for next season. Our position of mandatory vaccination for all frontline members (as identified within the policy) introduced on 23 February 2022 remains until we complete this review.

SLSNSW Member Covid-19 Vaccination Policy.

SLSNSW Member Covid-19 Vaccination Policy FAQs.

SLSNSW Member Covid-19 Vaccination Policy Review Process

From 23 February 2022 we will accept for these purposes proof of vaccination through the Service NSW app, your COVID-19 Digital Certificate, or if you do not have one, your Immunisation History Statement. These documents should be sighted by the supervisor at the SLS activity you are undertaking (eg Patrol Captain, Support Operations Coordinator, Club President or delegate)

Businesses can still require proof of vaccination at their own discretion. Clubs and branches may also wish to share information relating to how proof of vaccination status can be shown with their members and other stakeholders.

COVID-19 Safety Plans are now optional for all businesses.

Information to support the development of your COVID-19 Safety Plans can be found in this factsheet.

If the club runs a gym, café, restaurant or bar then they must also register as a ‘COVID Safe Business’. A copy of the COVID-19 Safety Plan must be kept on the premises and be made available for inspection by an authorised officer if requested.

The following COVID-19 Safety Plans can be found on the NSW Government website:

• Community centres and halls
• Function centres
• Gyms
• Funerals, memorial services and wakes
• Office environment
• Pubs and clubs
• Restaurants and cafes
• Wedding ceremonies and receptions

Clubs and branches should appoint a COVID Safe Coordinator to act as the central point of contact for COVID-19 matters. Clubs are requested to update their Officer Positions in SurfGuard with a new position available COVID Safe Coordinator. This will enable clear communications with every club as new information and updates become available. Additional COVID Safe Coordinators can be appointed for each portfolio (e.g. Lifesaving, Education, Juniors, Sport).

Most indoor premises do not require a QR code check in. See NSW Health for exceptions

Insurance

• Clubs should manage their risk as though there is NO insurance cover in place for claims arising from COVID. However, the risk of a claim against the club is very low if they implement the relevant government health advice across their activities, both on and off the beach.
• SLSNSW members have coverage for personal accident cover under the icare (workers compensation) scheme. As with contracting any infectious disease whilst participating in SLS activities, members are required to demonstrate to icare that the infection was directly acquired as a result of their SLS activity. All claims are considered and determined by icare directly and independently.
• The SLSA Insurance Program provides a safety net to address costs if a COVID related claim is lodged against a club.  Marsh, as the broker for the National Program, will manage and defend any claim in partnership with the club and SLSNSW.

Cyber Attacks (Phishing)

• Phishing schemes have increased dramatically since the outbreak of COVID-19.
• A guide to help clubs and branches identify and protect themselves from Phishing attacks is available on our website.

For more information about club governance, management and compliance, please contact memberservices@surflifesaving.com.au

• It is recommended that clubs have a clear policy on membership cancellation / refund / credit process and under what circumstances any refunds might be applied. More information and considerations, including SurfGuard processes can be found in this factsheet.
• Capitation fees will be charged on any membership accepted this season, including those which are archived within the season.

The NSW Government is offering financial support to businesses as part of the COVID-19 support package. Information on what is available to businesses and organisations can be found here.

The Westpac COVID-19 Customer Support Package is also available for Westpac customers.

For more information about available grants, please contact the SLSNSW Partnerships Team, fundraising@surflifesaving.com.au

For assistance in preparing a professionally written application, lodgement and acquittal for available grants, please contact the Surf Life Saving Foundation Grant Seeking Unit, (07) 3177 5855.

Communication resources such as social media tiles, website banners and posters have been created by NSW Health and can all be downloaded from Dropbox.

• Surf Life Saving NSW COVID-19 Exemption Procedure – Members