This week’s vaccination figures, again show outstanding and encouraging results for Mallee. Mallee has reached 88.3% first dose and 56.7% fully vaccinated adults.

Member for Mallee, Dr Anne Webster, on Tuesday said that these results were a continuation of the extraordinary efforts of residents who are contributing proactively to the easing of Victoria’s lockdown.

“The uptake in our region demonstrates the commitment of residents to do what they need to, to move on with their lives and leave these lockdowns in the past.” Dr Webster said.

The Mallee uptake continues to beat state and national averages. Victorians are currently vaccinated at 82.3% first dose and 52.6% second dose. Meanwhile, the national statistics show 79.6% first dose and 56.9% second dose.

“People in Mallee have done an outstanding job in this vaccine rollout, with some of our LGAs, namely Swan Hill and Buloke, showing first dose vaccination rates that exceed 95%.

“Buloke is also our first LGA to achieve 70% double dose vaccination, which is an achievement worthy of celebration.

“This shows that vast majority of people are willing to get the jab, knowing that it is in the interest of vulnerable loved ones. We all want to get our lives back. This is the key step to doing that” Dr Webster said.

The latest vaccination statistics come after Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews imposed mandatory vaccinations for all authorised workers in the state.

“The facts speak for themselves: most people have been getting the jab voluntarily. Why are we being kicked in the shins: if you don’t get it, you can’t keep your job?” Dr Webster said.

“I am absolutely supportive of the vaccine. I have had it myself. However, the heavy handed tactics of this state government demonstrates no respect, nor trust in the people of Victoria.”