Australia’s most populous state, New South Wales, made the reporting of rapid antigen test results mandatory on Wednesday as it experienced its deadliest day of the pandemic with 21 deaths.
State Premier Dominic Perrottet said residents who fail to register a positive rapid antigen test will face a fine of up to 1,000 Australian dollars (£634) starting next week.
Mr Perrottet said the registration process is simple and will help health officials provide more support to people with underlying health conditions.
The 21 deaths reported in New South Wales on Wednesday topped the previous record of 18 set on Monday. The state saw 34,759 new Covid-19 cases and 2,242 hospital admissions, including 175 patients in intensive care.
Victoria state, whose capital, Melbourne, is hosting the Australian Open tennis tournament starting next week, also reported 21 deaths on Wednesday along with 40,127 new cases as the state government announced that 1,000 first-year healthcare students and retired nurses are being recruited as vaccinators to meet rising demand for booster vaccinations.
Deputy Premier James Merlino said the state’s healthcare system is strained, with around 6,600 staff off work after testing positive or coming into close contact with a positive case.
New pandemic orders coming into force in Victoria on Wednesday make booster jabs mandatory for critical workers in various fields including healthcare, disability care, aged care, emergency services, correctional facilities, hotel quarantine and food distribution.
Workers in food and beverage manufacturing, distribution and packing will be allowed to continue working after coming into close contact with a positive Covid case.
