NSW posts 48,768 virus cases, 20 deaths
NSW has posted 48,768 new COVID-19 cases along with a further 20 virus-related deaths despite modelling showing the state tracking better than expected.
vaccines
Experts warn of COVID-19 reinfection risk
With two strains of COVID-19 circulating in the community, experts say there's a large risk of people becoming reinfected with the virus as case numbers rise.
Isolation change won’t add risk: experts
Despite COVID-19 isolation measures being changed for multiple workplace sectors, experts say it won't add to the risk of virus transmission.
Disability advocates hit out at iso change
Disability advocates have criticised changes to close contact isolation rules saying the federal government is not taking care of Australia's most vulnerable.
COVID-19 testing rule changes on the way
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has flagged changes to COVID-19 surveillance testing rules, as Omicron cases continue to rise.
Essential workers expanded to boost supply
National cabinet has agreed to expand the definition of essential workers to help address critical supply-chain issues caused by rising Omicron cases.
Queensland’s border wall to fall in days
As infection numbers grow, the barricades that played a central role in Queensland's COVID-19 elimination strategy will be removed in a matter of days.
Quarantine exemption about ‘managing risk’
Leaders are set to discuss staff shortages and the safe return to school amid rising COVID-19 cases at a meeting of national cabinet.
National cabinet to discuss school return
Leaders are set to work out a plan for how schools can safely reopen amid rising COVID-19 cases at a meeting of national cabinet.
Qld records another 22,069 virus cases
Queensland has recorded 22,069 new COVID-19 cases, taking the state's outbreak to more than 130,000 cases, with hundreds in hospital with the virus.
Don’t delay school start, leaders urged
A former deputy chief medical officer is calling on national cabinet to not delay the start of the school year, despite surging Omicron cases.
Urgent talks to address supply chain issue
Ministers are meeting with essential business sectors on possible COVID-19 isolation changes to help solve supply chain shortages due to rising infections.
COVID boosters for teens being considered
Medical experts are examining whether to allow COVID booster shots for 16 and 17-year-olds, after the child vaccination rollout began this week.
Calls for rapid antigen tests in schools
A leading epidemiologist has called for students to be given rapid antigen tests "every other day" because children aged five to 11 are largely unvaccinated.
Omicron clouds loom on return to classroom
Health authorities are trying to figure out how students can safely return to the classroom as Omicron COVID-19 cases rise across the country.
Worker rules to free up fruit and veges
Supermarkets are expected to be better stocked over coming days as new rules come into force allowing supply chain workers greater freedom from quarantining.
Child COVID-19 vaccination rollout begins
Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the start of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout has gone well despite concerns about staffing and logistical issues.
Coronavirus news in Australia
The latest snapshot of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Australia at 1730 AEDT on Monday, January 10.
Vic mandates boosters, dancefloors close
Victoria is yet to reach its peak in COVID-19 infections, the health minister warned as he announced a booster mandate for critical workers and other changes.
Calls for patience in kids’ jab rollout
Lieutenant General John Frewen says vaccine supply for children aged between five and 11 isn't an issue as he works to overcome distribution problems.
Enough doses as kids’ program begins: Hunt
Health Minister Greg Hunt says there will be three million COVID-19 vaccines available over January for the children's program which begins on Monday.
Virus deaths spike, children jabs begin
The daily death toll from COVID-19 has spiked to 20, with NSW reporting 16, its highest number since the pandemic began.
Omicron peak still ‘weeks away’, AMA warns
The Australian Medical Association says the nation's healthcare system needs extra support as COVID-19 cases surge towards a peak that is still weeks away.
Djokovic had COVID-19, court papers reveal
World No.1 tennis player Novak Djokovic contracted COVID-19 ahead of his trip to Melbourne for the Australian Open, court documents show.
Govt eases rules on COVID-19 leave support
Workers who return a positive COVID-19 rapid antigen test will soon be able to access pandemic leave disaster payments .
Price hikes on rapid tests now illegal
Changes to biosecurity laws have come into place, making it illegal for retailers to mark up prices on rapid antigen tests by more than 20 per cent.
Federal govt defends Djokovic detention
The Home Affairs Minister says Novak Djokovic, who faces deportation unless his legal challenge is successful, fell foul of COVID-19 entry requirements.
Woman in Qld court over vaccination fraud
One of two women accused of being involved in vaccine fraud north of Brisbane has had her case mentioned in court.
Millions more eligible for boosters
Around 7.5 million Australians are eligible for their booster shots as of Tuesday as states continue to record soaring infection numbers.
Qld daily virus cases climb to 589
Queensland has 589 new virus cases and Health Minister Yvette D'Ath has warned residents they need to set up a COVID-19 care plan in case they get sick.
NSW climbs to 3763 COVID-19 cases
NSW has recorded 3763 cases of COVID-19 overnight, another daily record for the pandemic as people rush to get tested before the Christmas break.