Thursday, 7 April 2022

COVID-19 vaccination

Dr CUMMING (Western Metropolitan) (12:27): My question is to the Minister for Health in the other place. When will the minister scrap vaccine mandates for entry into venues? In February Tasmania removed the requirements for pub, bar and nightclub patrons and staff to be fully vaccinated; yesterday the Northern Territory announced their vaccine pass system would be scrapped, effective immediately; and from 14 April in Queensland people will no longer need to prove that they have had two doses of a vaccine before heading into cafes, pubs, clubs, theme parks, casinos, cinemas, weddings, showgrounds, stadiums, galleries, libraries and museums. Queensland’s chief health officer said:

What we are saying is this particular measure has no public health benefit now because of the proportion of people that are vaccinated …

Why are we somehow scientifically different here in Victoria to the rest of Australia?

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Leader of the Government, Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:28): I thank Dr Cumming for her question and certainly know her passionate views in relation to the vaccination economy and requirements for people to be vaccinated for the safety of our community. The health minister and indeed the Premier are on record that, as soon as it is safe to, there will be the opportunity to remove the minimal amount of restrictions that are currently on. That is something that would certainly be looked at. We are currently on our way up to a peak of cases, and we know that winter is a particularly challenging and difficult time for people in relation to their health. I will ensure that you get a response from the health minister, as that is who you have directed it to, but I suspect it will be similar to the advice that I have given you, backed up by health advice.

Dr CUMMING (Western Metropolitan) (12:29): Thank you, Attorney. I look forward to the Minister for Health’s response. When will the minister scrap vaccine mandates for all non-essential workers? Last week unvaccinated teachers and school staff in South Australia, as well as public transport workers and taxi and rideshare drivers, were able to return to work. In February Tasmania removed the requirements for staff to be fully vaccinated at pubs, nightclubs and bars. Victoria is still suffering worker shortages in a number of areas. Hospitality venues in particular are finding it difficult to keep up with the demand. The vaccine is not a silver bullet. It does not stop you from catching COVID. It does not stop COVID spreading. Remove these mandates and allow everyone to go back to work, rather than punishing the population of Victoria. Victorians have had enough of the mandates. Come on and repeat your lies.

The PRESIDENT: Dr Cumming, thank you. You started your question; you started your supplementary on a different issue. But I call the minister.

Ms SYMES (Northern Victoria—Leader of the Government, Attorney-General, Minister for Emergency Services) (12:30): Dr Cumming’s further comments will be passed on to the health minister.