HERE we go again. Once more we share the feeling of dread that accompanies a lockdown.
This is Victoria’s sixth lockdown since the beginning of the pandemic, and our fourth since February this year.
We know that the Delta variant is highly infectious and poses a greater risk to our community.
On Friday, NSW announced 291 new cases, and the state’s prospects of being freed from lockdown look increasingly dim. Although this is Victoria’s sixth lockdown, it’s likely the state will spend far fewer days locked down than NSW from this point on.
While this provides justification for snap restrictions, the Premier needs to explain why Sunraysia has again been lumped in with Melbourne.
One mystery case, leading to several further cases in Melbourne, caused the Premier to make this decision, and a detection of the virus in Wangaratta was used as justification to include all regional Victoria in the new restrictions. Wangaratta is just as far away from Mildura as Melbourne. Rationally, this does not stack up.
I have argued since the beginning of this pandemic that targeted, measured and proportionate lockdowns are needed to deal with this virus. Statewide restrictions are a disproportionate reaction and again show zero tolerance for risk, while hurting our communities. Just what level of risk are we willing to accept?
A continual run of statewide lockdowns is unsustainable, especially if the NSW outbreak continues unabated. Localised restrictions are needed to ensure our survival, not only from the virus, but also from the broader economic and social impacts of continual lockdowns.
Unfortunately, individuals and businesses will again struggle to pay the bills. In terms of support, the $400 million Victorian Business Support Package, jointly funded by the Commonwealth and State governments, is still being rolled out. This includes specific support for businesses that have not been eligible for previous grants. I have also contacted the Federal Health Minister to discuss further COVID-19 disaster payments for regional Victorians.
This one will be tough. If you need support, please reach out to my office, as help is always close by. I know that we can get through this. I just wish we didn’t have to.
