Western Australia (WA) Premier Mark McGowan has stated that the state’s vaccine passport mandates could last for years. McGowan made this announcement following an expansion of WA’s proof of vaccination requirement, which he branded “the broadest in the nation.”
The Premier said on January 13th that the restrictions against those who are unvaccinated “will not be removed any time soon.” He added that the restrictions could be in place “for years” in an effort to “protect the unvaccinated from themselves.”
“Life will become very difficult for the unvaccinated. No pubs, no bottle-shops, no gyms, no yoga classes, no gigs, no dancefloors, no hospital or aged care visits,” the WA premier said.
According to the Premier, the expanded vaccine passport mandates would come into effect in 2022 and would apply to more venues as a means to “curb” the spread of Covid-19.
From the end of January 2022, unvaccinated Australians will be barred from entering medical facilities, food and beverage establishments, entertainment venues, sports centres and gyms. Prior to this announcement, WA had already made proof of vaccination mandatory for “higher-risk venues and events” where large numbers of people could congregate such as music festivals.
WA residents aged 16 and older will be required to show proof of vaccination via the state’s ServiceWA app. A paper version is also to be accepted but should be accompanied by a government-issued ID. Those who use the app to show proof will not be required to present valid identification alongside it.
The latest announcement followed a promise of a long-term vaccine passport scheme. McGowan said: “If you, for some reason, have not had your first dose [of the COVID-19 vaccine] yet – my advice would be to make a booking today. Otherwise, life is about to get very difficult for you.”
The expanded measures form part of a wider plan to assure citizens are “confident these public settings, and that they are only mixing with other vaccinated people.” Essentially this is state-wide segregation and discrimination of those who have chosen not to get vaccinated or conform with the agenda.
