The empathy and understanding of the Australian people has been central in setting us up for success in a post pandemic Australia.

The communities I represent in the Mighty Eden-Monaro need a strong recovery more than most following the triple whammy of drought – bushfires and COVID-19.

At these critical flashpoints, people turn to their government for leadership and right now there is a crisis of confidence.

Until we get this vaccine in the arms of people the social and economic security we all crave will be undermined.

Yesterday locations for the 1b roll out were announced – people want to do the right thing and get vaccinated but this government makes it hard.

I am worried that the most vulnerable members of our community are going to be placed at further risk.

Under the current plan if you are over 70 years old, have a disability or an underlying medical condition and you live in Cooma, Bombala or Jindabyne you potentially face a five hour round trip to Bega, Canberra or Narooma.

This makes no sense in the real world.

On top of that – I’ve had local doctors on the phone upset that they are being set up to fail and let their community down.

My priority is to support people’s desire to do the right thing, I raise my community’s concerns so that the Morrison Government can make the necessary adjustments.

There are almost 1000 eligible people in the Snowy Monaro alone who will have to jump through these hoops.

A five hour drive adds risk and expense few families are comfortable with.

Let’s not blow the position of strength we find ourselves in by ignoring local voices.

Media contact: Ian Campbell, phone 0417 482 171