Thursday, 18 August 2022

COVID-19

Mr WELLS (Rowville) (09:48): This members statement condemns the Andrews Labor government’s incredible disrespect for Victorians stranded in New South Wales after borders shut last year, with the Premier showing no compassion and offering no compensation—not even an apology—completely rejecting the Ombudsman’s recommendations. The Ombudsman found that the border permit system was downright unjust, even inhumane. Only 8 per cent of the 33 252 applications to cross the border were ever approved, most never received a response and many applications were closed without being considered. The Premier’s tone-deaf reaction will be sadly familiar to the residents who spoke to my office.

Peter and Bev, in their 80s, bought a house in Rowville to be close to their children. The sale of their New South Wales home settled just as the border shut. While living on the mercy of the new owners, rent was simply unaffordable for them as pensioners. Adding to the stress, both Peter and Bev needed regular medical care. Despite full vaccination and negative COVID tests, their applications were delayed time and time again. Another Rowville resident travelled to New South Wales to sell the family business, but the permit system was revoked before they could return to Victoria. Being asked to vacate their New South Wales rental property but being unable to travel home was extremely stressful, as they faced being homeless and unemployed after the sale of their business.