Australia’s National Cabinet to discuss COVID-19 situation
Australia’s National Cabinet, consisting of the Prime Minister and all state and territory leaders, will meet virtually today to discuss the current COVID-19 situation.
The main points of discussion are likely to be the emergence of the Omicron variant, reopening plans and Australia’s booster shot program. Omicron has caused the Australian government to delay its planned opening to visa holders and international students from December 1 to December 15 and led to several states reinstating quarantine requirements for vaccinated international arrivals. This will likely further exacerbate the economic troubles of Australia’s tourism industry.
Despite the increase in restrictions, Australia is unlikely to delay its planned reopening any further. The premiers of four Australian states coming from both major parties have recently indicated there will be no changes to their planned easing of restrictions and that high vaccination levels will suffice. Approximately 74% of the population is fully vaccinated with 78% having at least one dose.
In the short-term expect Australia’s reopening to significantly boost Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19. In the medium-term, expect the continuing uncertainty around the pandemic and its aftermath to slow future economic growth.
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