Vaccine Mandate decision a win for common sense : Dametto

24th June 2022

Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) Deputy Leader and Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto has welcomed the news that unvaccinated Queenslanders will be able to return to their livelihoods following the majority of vaccine mandate being lifted.

From 30 June, mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations will no longer be required for visitors to residential aged care, disability accommodation and corrective service facilities.

In addition, the high-risk worker COVID-19 vaccine mandate will be revoked in schools, early childhood education, outside school care, kindergartens, family day care, police watch houses, youth detention centres, airports.

Mandatory vaccines are still required for workers in healthcare, hospitals, aged care, and disability care.

The Hinchinbrook MP described the news as a win for common sense.

“These ludicrous mandates have not only short-changed Queenslanders who chose not to be vaccinated for various reasons, but they’ve short-changed our education system, our aged care facilities, corrections and a number of other industries, creating staff shortages across the country,” Mr Dametto said.

“While I’m elated Queenslanders can get back to work, its beggars’ belief these mandates are still being considered mandatory for our healthcare workers.”

Mr Dametto was pleased to hear teachers throughout Queensland could return to work and their passion.

“I welcome the news these archaic and divisive mandates have been lifted in our classrooms, it’s time for teachers to get back to doing what they love,” he said.

“Unfortunately for some teachers and workers throughout the state this news will be little too late, having been left with a sour taste in their mouths over the treatment they’ve received over the last couple of years.

“Although I think lifting these mandates is a win for common sense and democracy, I believe the damage has been done, some of Queensland’s most experienced workers will never return to their chosen profession.

“The thing is, COVID-19 hasn’t gone anywhere, we’re still seeing community transmissions, we’re still seeing hospitalisations, the thing is the Government has finally realised this is a virus we have to learn to live with.

“I also want to acknowledge those who have stood up against these unworkable and unnecessary mandates, today’s decision is a win for those workers.

“I, along with my fellow Katter’s Australian Party colleagues will continue to fight to have all remaining restrictions removed.”

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