Australia has officially passed its first major vaccination milestone.
During lockdown, our list of hobbies has grown from baking and watching Netflix to keeping an eye on our vaccination numbers every day. And now, in very welcome news indeed, Australia has reached a major milestone with over 70 per cent of residents over the age of 16 fully vaccinated and at least 85 per cent vaccinated with one dose.
While Australia’s vaccine rollout started slower than some other countries, it has certainly picked momentum in the last few months with thousands of residents doing their bit daily and bringing us that much closer to some semblance of normality and freedom.
Health Minister Greg Hunt confirmed the news via a press conference earlier today.
“I can officially confirm that Australia has now passed the 70 per cent double-dosed vaccination rate for the 16-plus population,” Mr Hunt said.
“It’s a memorable number, but it’s memorable above all else because it represents the movement at a national level to phase B of our national roadmap.”
The move to phase B will indicate restrictions easing for fully vaccinated residents, lockdowns becoming less likely and international visa holders and residents being able to return to the country.
Details will be announced later in the month.
Australia’s vaccination rate by State
Here in Victoria, 66.1 per cent of us are fully vaccinated, and 89 per cent have had a first dose.
Both ACT and NSW have passed 80 per cent double vaccination rate among eligible adults. Meanwhile, Tasmania is on the verge of hitting 70 per cent double dose. Both South Australia and NT are due to hit 60 per cent soon.
Queensland and Western Australia are lagging behind with 57.5 per cent and 56.5 per cent respectively.
You can track the vaccine rollout in real time here.
MORE INFO
Book a vaccine appointment at a state-run centre here.
Learn how to get your vaccination certificate here.
Read about Victoria’s roadmap out of lockdown here.