The Government’s Leave Support Scheme is available for employers to pay their employees for those who can’t work under any of the following circumstances: When they’re at higher risk if they get COVID-19, then the Ministry of Health guidelines recommend they stay at home, while public health restrictions are in place. In the event that they’ve come into contact with someone who has COVID-19, and so they must self-isolate for 14 days (as required by Ministry of Health guidelines ). When they’re tested positive for COVID-19, and therefore are required to remain off work until they’ve been cleared by a health professional, to be released from self-isolation. And also, when they have household members who are at higher risk if they get COVID-19 . In this situation, the Ministry of Health recommends the employee remain at home, in order to reduce the risk for their household members. What payment will I receive? The Leave Support Scheme will be paid at a flat rate of: $585.80 for people who were working 20 hours or more per week (full-time rate). $350.00 for people who were working less than 20 hours per week (part-time rate). The Leave Support Scheme is paid as a lump sum, and covers 2 weeks per employee, from the date you submit your application. How do I apply? You can apply through the Work and Income website .