WA government documents suggest lockdowns still likely despite high vaccination rates

As the rest of the nation moves beyond a Covid-zero mentality, documents published by the West Australian government suggest the threat of lockdowns could continue despite high vaccination rates.

It is expected WA will reach the first vaccine milestone of 70 per cent of the population over 12 fully vaccinated later on Monday.

Under the national plan, lockdowns would become less likely — but still possible — when 70 per cent of people over the age of 16 were fully vaccinated.

Despite Premier Mark McGowan signing onto this plan, his government’s own Covid-19 transition plan suggests lockdowns are inevitable if cases emerge before the state hits its target of 90 per cent of the over 12 population double vaxxed.

“That’s a very, very strong growth in numbers,” Mr McGowan said on Monday.

“Our forward booking schedule, particularly in the lead up to the dates for the mandates kicking in, are very strong.

“So lots of people are booking in for the end of November to get their vaccinations ... that’s a very good sign.”

Until WA reaches this milestone it will continue an elimination strategy and would only tolerate cases at the 90 per cent threshold.

“If an outbreak occurs before WA reaches 90 per cent, we will aim to eliminate the virus as we have successfully done in the past,” a FAQ published on its website states.

“This may include the need for a lockdown or the application of other public health and social measures determined on the latest health advice.”

It is expected WA will reach the 90 per cent benchmark in late January or early February.

While WA has been largely successful in keeping Covid-19 out of the state, the threat of a lockdown beyond the 80 per cent vaccination rate could cost millions.

Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has previously indicated that states will not receive any federal support should they go into lockdown once the 80 per cent vaccination benchmark is reached.

“If you look around the world, people are starting to get about their normal lives. They’re learning to live with the virus in a Covid-safe way,” he said.

“As our vaccination rates hit 70 and 80 per cent, we need to do that as well.”

Almost $13bn in Covid disaster payments have been paid out to workers in locked-down jurisdictions.