Australia’s Delayed Covid-19 Vaccine Rollout Cost $20 Billion, Inquiry Finds

A government-backed inquiry has revealed that delays in Australia’s Covid-19 vaccine rollout cost the country at least $20 billion (Aus$31 billion), as prolonged lockdowns and restrictions hindered economic recovery. The 12-month investigation highlighted that Australia’s initial lack of urgency in vaccine distribution led to prolonged and costly restrictions.

The inquiry criticized former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s administration, citing Morrison’s statement that the vaccine rollout was “not a race.” This approach contributed to one of the slowest vaccine rollouts among developed nations, delaying the reopening of major cities by several months, the report concluded.

Australia’s response to Covid-19 was otherwise successful, with strict lockdowns and a nearly two-year international border closure helping to contain the virus. However, the report found that delays in vaccine procurement extended these restrictive measures, causing a “direct economic cost” estimated at $20 billion. Additionally, the prolonged restrictions led to increased public mistrust in scientists and health authorities, impacting public perception of the government’s pandemic strategy.

Among other issues highlighted, the inquiry referenced a previous incident where thousands of passengers were allowed to disembark from a cruise ship before their Covid-19 test results were available, leading to a spike in cases.

In response, the government plans to establish a new Centre for Disease Control (CDC) aimed at improving pandemic preparedness and response. This CDC is expected to incorporate lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic to better handle future health crises.