Australia earns a lockdown ‘early mark’: Key decision on easing restrictions is moved forward to next Friday as 11 of 15 conditions are fulfilled
Coronavirus restrictions will be relaxed from next Friday after Scott Morrison brought forward the date because the infection rate is so low.
The National Cabinet was due to discuss relaxing the so-called national baseline restrictions on May 11 – but the Prime Minister has shifted this meeting to May 8.
‘Australians deserve an early mark for the work that they have done,’ the Prime Minister said.
Coronavirus restrictions will be relaxed from next Friday after Scott Morrison (pictured) brought forward the date because the infection rate is so low
In a positive sign, Mr Morrison said the National Cabinet will discuss ‘how conditions can be eased’ – rather than whether they can be eased.
Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy told the National Cabinet that 15 conditions should be met before restrictions could be relaxed.
The Prime Minister said 11 out of 15 conditions have been met already – but urged more Australians to download the contract tracing app.
‘We need that tool so we can open the economy. So if you haven’t downloaded the app yet, download it.’
The conditions focus on testing, contact tracing, and the preparedness of health services.