More than 55,000 casual and contract workers have signed up for Victoria’s Sick Pay Guarantee program, including retail workers.

The two-year pilot program – an Australian-first – offers casual workers without sick leave entitlements up to 38 hours of sick and carer’s pay each year, at the national minimum wage.

Industries with the highest rates of casual and contract workers such as supermarkets, food and beverage operators, fast-food chains, and bakeries – together with companies employing cleaners, laundry workers, security guards and kitchen hands – are eligible for the program.

Employment minister Ben Carroll said: “Workers shouldn’t feel forced to go to work sick because they can’t afford to miss a day’s pay – that’s why we’re ensuring it’s a choice they never have to make through our nation-leading Sick Pay Guarantee.”

The Victoria Labor Government’s $245.7 million Sick Pay Guarantee aims to reduce workplace illnesses and injuries and keep businesses safer and more productive.

• Further reading: More retailers offering paid sick leave to casuals