Businesses are being pushed to the brink as staff sickness upsets workplace rosters.

Flu season is in full swing, combining with a spike in Covid-19 case numbers and hospitalisations.

Global modelling suggests up to 45 percent of new Covid cases could be re-infections, thanks to the virulent BA5 Omicron strain.

Employers and Manufacturers' Association Chief Executive Brett O'Riley  told Kate Hawkesby 2022 is by far the most unpredictable year of the pandemic for businesses.

He says the economy is seeing more disruption than ever, making it a tough time for employers and their workers.

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