Frontline health workers in Eden-Monaro no longer face an 11-hour drive to receive the Pfizer vaccine.

Last week I was contacted by doctors and nurses in the electorate who were facing two days off work and time away from their patients and loved ones in order to take part in phase 1a of the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

Health workers were told they needed to travel to Liverpool Hospital in south west Sydney to receive their jab, potentially leaving hospital and local GP clinics short staffed – a situation that was simple unworkable and unfair.

I met with the Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt on Thursday to express my deep concern and that of our local health professionals – and I thank the Minister for his time.

I am pleased to report that Liverpool Hospital vaccinators will now travel to Southern New South Wales to vaccinate health staff.

This is a common-sense solution for frontline workers who have carried the weight of bushfires and the pandemic for over 12 months now.

Thank you to local health leaders who raised this issue with me – you know your community and what’s needed.

The people of Eden-Monaro have risen to the challenges of the last 18 months with dignity and a deep commitment to each other.

The rollout of the vaccine will help our resolve and bolster our dedication to see this through and continue to build a strong renewal.

Media contact: Ian Campbell, phone: 0417 482 171