Government to deliver ‘pandemic budget’ as Josh Frydenberg pledges ‘record commitments’ on services; Extreme weather warning for multiple states; England to ease more virus restrictions; US rules teenagers can get Pfizer vaccine


Tonight’s budget will make clear when Australia’s borders will finally open for international travel, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has hinted.

The budget would reveal the Federal Government’s “assumptions” on vaccine rollout, border closures and containment measures, he said.

The Treasurer would not be drawn on speculation the government is lining up borders re-opening some time in 2022.

“It’s very hard to be precise in the middle of a pandemic,” Mr Frydenberg said.

“There’s a lot of uncertainty, globally and domestically with respect to the virus.

“The key point is, we’ll always follow the medical advice and we’ll always do our best to keep Australians safe.”

When pressed by reporters what quarter in 2022 the borders could open, Mr Frydenberg simply replied: “No surprise – tune in at 7.30pm tonight.”


Source link