Australia has been behind other nations in rolling out its COVID vaccinations. But they’re gearing up to go big, and “vaccination certificates” that may be used to restrict rights and travel appear to be part of the plan.
Government services minister Stuart Robert revealed the certificate system was already functional via the country’s “MyGov” website and Medicare phone app:
“You can go right now to your Medicare app, to myGov, and access your vaccination certificate right now. We will continue to build that certificate out over the coming weeks to make it more easily accessible, but the capability is live now. We are ready now for the vaccine rollout.”
According to Roberts, not only will proof of vaccinations be required for travel, but the certificates might also be needed to do “normal” things citizens do, such as going to work and frequenting shops and restaurants.
“Australians need to have that record, especially, depending on state public health orders, but also when travelling and borders open up again,” he said. “The Attorney-General is working with unions and other interested parties looking at the issue as well, so there will be greater announcements made by states and territories in due course.”
TREND FORECAST: Just as nations and states have enforced students to submit to a variety of vaccinations to attend schools, so, too, will there be government mandates to enforce mass vaccinations. While there will be a right for people to refuse them, those who resist will lose many of their rights to travel, attend school, events, restaurants, etc.
However, the anti-vax backlash will rapidly build and become a key platform for populist movements.
