The CPSU says Border Force staff need better protections from the risk of COVID-19 infection at sea. 

The Community and Public Sector Union has called for the Australian Border Force to test workers for COVID-19 after they intercept vessels, and provide more support for staff to get vaccinated.

“If they are for example intercepting a foreign vessel, and they have access to people on those vessels that are from countries that have high rates of COVID, we would say that when they are returning into Australia, they should be tested to ensure it's safe for them to go back home and back into the community,” deputy national president Brooke Muscat said.

Ms Muscat said the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines for marine unit staff has been too slow, particularly given their work on the front line in patrolling borders and intercepting vessels.

“The department hasn't really taken any proactive steps to facilitate our members going out there and arranging their vaccination.”

“We don't understand why Home Affairs doesn't give this the attention that it needs.”

Currently, state and territory health authorities do not require staff returning from patrol to be tested for COVID-19, and there is no Therapeutic Goods Administration-approved rapid test being used in the marine operating environment.

The Home Affairs Department, which oversees Border Force, has responded, saying all eligible staff can get a vaccination during work time.