“The time for that heavy hand is behind us.[It is] the time for knowing and trusting Australians who have proven themselves with one of the highest vaccination rates in the world,” he told reporters. “We have to move from a culture of mandates to a culture of responsibility. That’s how we live with this virus into the future.“
National cabinet is meeting on Wednesday to discuss boosters and public health measures,as some states and territories consider bringing back indoor mask-wearing requirements. On Monday,the country’s Chief Medical Officer,Professor Paul Kelly,said people should wear masks in closed spaces if it made them feel safer.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said masks were still a vital public health measure.
“There is a very important role for masks for closed settings. There’s a very important role as the PM said before,for appropriate distancing,washing the hands,” he said on Tuesday.
Mr Morrison said people were already being sensible and wearing masks while out and about as the holiday period began.
“Australians know what is a common sense,responsible action to look after their own health and to look after the health of those around them,” he said. “We’ve got to treat Australians like adults. And we all have our own responsibility in our communities and for our own health.”