The latest official coronavirus news, updates and advice from the Australian Government.
Australian citizens and permanent residents aged 12 and over who have received two doses of an approved or recognised vaccine can leave Australia without needing an outwards travel exemption.
Children under 12 and those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons will also be able to travel overseas without an exemption.
Everyone aged 18 and over who completed their primary two-dose course of COVID-19 vaccination at least six months ago is now eligible to have an additional booster shot. The booster program will initially target priority groups in residential aged care and disability facilities.
The expert immunisation panel, ATAGI, has recommended the Pfizer vaccine for the booster dose – irrespective of which vaccine a person received for their primary course of vaccination.
More than 89% of the Australian population aged 16 years and over have had a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and over 79% of Australians aged 16 years and over are now fully vaccinated. National Cabinet discussed the roll out of COVID-19 boosters, received advice on emerging scientific evidence of the benefits of vaccinating for 5-11 year olds, and noted the successful reopening of international borders.
National Cabinet also received its final update on the second phase of modelling from the Doherty Institute. This incorporates updated parameters and recent evidence, and confirms previous findings regarding the thresholds for moving to Phases B and C of the National Plan remain robust.
From 21 November, quarantine-free travel arrangements will be available for fully vaccinated Singaporean citizens travelling from Singapore who present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure.
Businesses and organisations play a vital role in the success of Australia reaching its COVID-19 vaccination targets, limiting restrictions and getting back to normal.
There is a lot businesses can do to support employees with making the choice to be vaccinated.