Tasmanian workers in isolation to get $1500 lump sum payment

The Tasmanian Chamber of Industry and Commerce says the pandemic leave disaster payment for workers is better than nothing.

Tasmanians can apply for the lump sum payment which applies from August 22.

In other news:

Unions Tasmania acting secretary Steve Walsh said the payment was "better than nothing".

"There are more efficient ways to support workers," Mr Walsh said.

"It should be that workers have their wages maintained at the level they receive when working.

"We want to see the details."

TCCI chief Michael Bailey said the payment was a "good move" and would help workers.

"People will always want more but someone has got to pay," Mr Bailey.

"I think this is as good as it gets and it's not too bad."

Tasmanian Greens Senator Peter Whish-Wilson wants the eligibility criteria for the payment extended.

"Whilst it is good news that the PM has listened and held up his end of the bargain with the Premier, the announced leave package falls short of protecting the most vulnerable in our community," he said.

The commonwealth and state governments said the payment is aimed at helping workers who have to self-isolate or quarantine for 14 days and are unable to work.

"If an individual is instructed by a health official to stay home from work, and has used up all their sick leave entitlements, including any special pandemic leave, they may be eligible to make a claim," a media statement said.

"People may also be eligible if they're the parent or guardian of a child aged 16 or under who is a close contact or has tested positive for COVID-19."

Tasmanian workers are only eligible for the payment if they are not receiving any income or JobKeeper or any other government income support.

If health officials order a long period of isolation the payment can be claimed again.

In Victoria more than $8.8 million has been paid for almost 6,000 granted claims since August 6.

Tasmanians wanting to make a claim can call 180 22 66.