Today we announced the new date for WA’s full border opening – and it’s worth talking through how we got here.

Four weeks ago, on January 20, we took the difficult decision to delay Western Australia’s full border opening. It was a tough call – but it was also the right call for our State.

Proceeding with the original plan and dropping our borders at the height of the east coast Omicron outbreak would have been a complete unforced error.

In addition to the two local cases already announced, I can confirm as of 1pm today, WA has reported a further three local cases so far today.

It’s clear the number of cases of the Omicron variant is growing, and so is the risk to the community. The three new local cases will be included in tomorrow’s update. Two of these local cases have also been linked to U Natural Spa Therapy in Applecross.

As flagged, ahead of our Safe Transition Plan, we will be expanding proof of vaccination requirements to a wider range of venues and to apply state-wide. Effective Monday, January 31, double dose proof of vaccination for those aged 16 and older will be required state-wide for:
- Visitors to public and private hospitals, and aged care facilities;

This is the most important state election in living memory.

During a once-in-a-century pandemic and global economic uncertainty, who do you trust to guide WA through unprecedented times?

The answer is clear - WA needs this experienced Government. A Government that makes jobs and health its number one priorities, that is dedicated to fairness, opportunity and creating prosperity across this great state, and that’s never afraid to stand up to Canberra.

A Government that will keep WA strong.

We’ve just announced a huge boost that will help thousands of Western Australians access TAFE and training courses with massive cuts to fees and a range of short courses that will be completely free. As the economy recovers, skilled workers will be in high demand, which means that training will be vital to develop a skilled workforce.

Our new $57m package to support TAFE and training with make sure West Aussies can access the training they need to access jobs in key areas.

Our State has seen remarkable results in the fight against COVID-19 - and while that fight will continue for some time yet, those results mean we can now cautiously adjust some of the most extreme of those restrictions. As of tomorrow, 27 April, based on expert health advice, the two person limit on non-work indoor and outdoor gatherings will be adjusted, with the limit rising to 10 people.

We’ve just announced the $145 million Armadale Road dual carriageway project is set to open on Friday.

It was my pleasure to also announce the new four-lane bridge over Nicholson Road will be named in honour of a truly great Western Australian. That person is Hugo Throssell VC.

I want to tell you a little bit of his story.