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Coronavirus Podcast: Developments arise as US and EU start opening borders

Authorities in Victoria are tightening the Australian state’s border with New South Wales from Tuesday night in an attempt to curb the spread of the Delta variant of the virus that causes Covid-19.

NSW recorded 207 new cases on Monday, while Victoria identified another two infections.

Under the changes, so-called “border bubble” residents can only cross the border to enter Victoria without a permit for “necessary goods and services”, including medical care and getting a Covid-19 test or jab; care and compassionate reasons; paid or voluntary work; education; or sport and exercise at a club or recreation facility.

Brett Sutton, Victoria’s chief health officer, said the changes would come into effect at 11.59pm on Tuesday.

People crossing the border to enter Victoria cannot travel further than reasonably necessary. “In other words, if you’re from Albury, you can’t shop in Wangaratta or Melbourne if you can get the essentials you need in Wodonga,” Sutton said.

Victorian residents who plan to enter NSW are subject to the same restrictions.

Queensland’s lockdown will continue until at least Sunday after authorities decided the initial three-day stay-at-home period would be “insufficient”. It was due to end on Tuesday.

Police in Victoria said residents had been “98.9 per cent” compliant in observing border controls related to the most recent lockdowns.

Victoria Police said it had deployed 1,300 officers dedicated to coronavirus-related enforcement in the state of 6.8m people, including 400 roving patrols near the New South Wales and South Australia borders.

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