Tara Murray
Under-40s will now be able to get the AstraZeneca vaccination at state-run clinics in the west.
Premier Daniel Andrews announced on Friday that the state government will expand the roll-out of access to the AstraZeneca vaccine for under-40s to all state run clinics.
“We’ve seen young Victorians turn out in their thousands with AstraZeneca now available for 18 to 39-year-olds in state vaccination hubs – we need Victorians of all ages to mirror that enthusiasm and get vaccinated as soon as they can,” Mr Andrews said.
“The Victorian government is significantly expanding access to the vaccine for this age group across all of our AstraZeneca state vaccination centres, and capacity is being scaled up across the state-run system with more drive-through and mobile clinics.
“The aim is to administer one million doses in the next five weeks.”
A Department of Health spokesperson said the department was working with councils, health services and community organisations in the western suburbs to ensure every eligible Victorian who wants a vaccine will be able to get one.
Melton mayor Kathy Majdlik said the council was working with the department to establish additional vaccination sites across the municipality for eligible people in our community.
Caroline Springs has one of the areas of concern, with an outbreak linked to the CS Square Shopping Centre.
“I’m pleased that so many people have been proactive in getting tested and helping to reduce any further risk of transmission,” she said.
“The safety of our community is council’s priority and I’d really like to thank everyone who is doing their part by adhering to the expert health advice.”
Brimbank mayor Ranka Rasic said the council was working to ensure that residents have access to vaccination and testing sites.
“Brimbank continues to support and promote the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and ongoing testing for COVID-19.
“Brimbank will continue to offer support to ensure an effective roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccination program.
“It’s disappointing that Australia is so far behind with the roll-out, almost last in the developing world.”
