There is no greater priority in Australian life at the moment than getting vaccinated against COVID-19.
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Quite simply, nothing is more important.
We all need to demonstrate the sense of urgency needed to put the Australian vaccination program on hyperdrive as best as possible and to do that, we all need to do our bit.
Yes, we need governments to complete their end of the bargain, but we have a stake in the game too. If you are eligible and can get the vaccine, go get it. If you are in an age group who can register for the vaccination, do that. You see, making a decision to get vaccinated isn't solely about self.
It benefits everyone.
Both state and federal governments need to do more to set ambitious, yet achievable targets to jab the people quickly and clear any roadblocks for pharmacists to join in on the rollout. And they must also approve their somewhat convoluted messaging at times to make it clear how people can access a vaccine. Tasmania is on track to be the first Australian state or territory to vaccinate its people.
Yes, there are supply and access issues, particularly in regional areas, but the state government is doing a good job of prioritising our most vulnerable.
Almost all nursing home residents have had their first jab, while about 50 per cent of staff have rolled up their sleeves.
Yes, people may have to wait a few weeks to receive their jab once they have registered but don't get deterred.
Herd vaccination is everyone's way out of the social and economic insecurity caused by border lockdowns.
It is also the only way to protect the nation's vulnerable population.
None of us will be OK, until we are all OK. That is the message, right there.
Until we all take our shot we will continue to see communities and local economies thrown into chaos as has happened again in Victoria. Until we take our shot we won't see a true and proper re-opening of international borders.
This is on us all. None of us are OK, until we are all OK.