The State Government has called on councils to not dismiss or stand down staff during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Earlier this week, the Minister for Local Government Adem Somyurek and Minister for Jobs Martin Pakula wrote to Victorian councils advising they must continue to provide critical community functions.
It is understood that the Yarra Ranges Council has not yet needed to stand down any staff during the coronavirus pandemic.
Councils have also been invited to partner with the government’s $500 million Working for Victoria Fund to help people who have lost their jobs and ensure local services continue to be delivered.
Mr Somyurek said one of the important things Councils can do in responding to coronavirus is not add to the number of Victorians who have lost their job.
“Councils have a vital role to play in supporting and protecting local communities during these unprecedented times and dismissing or standing down staff is not consistent with that,” he said.
“It is important that Councils do their bit by addressing the implications of coronavirus on their operations and continuing to serve their community.”
The State Government said it is working with Councils, specifically small rural councils, to consider the implications of coronavirus on their operations including the welfare of staff, compliance with the Act, elections and their meetings.
