It was a big day for big statements. One from an incumbent state premier, the other from a former Prime Minister.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is prepared to lose the state election rather than bow to pressure to reopen the state's border.
"If it means losing the election, I will risk all that if it means keeping Queenslanders safe," Ms Palaszczuk said. "I'm putting myself out there, I'm putting myself on the line."
At least that decision was the Premier's to make. It seems the keyboard warriors have decided themselves to put Queensland's chief health officer Dr Jeanette Young on the line.
She faced an onslaught of criticism after denying 26-year-old Canberra nurse Sarah Caisip's plea to leave hotel quarantine to attend her father's funeral with her mother and sister.
Dr Young was placed under police guard following death threats and constant online trolling. Her home continues to be protected.
"It has taken an enormous toll on me, but then this has taken an enormous toll on nearly every single person in our community," Dr Young said on Monday.
"The support has made me feel much, much safer in doing what I need to do," Dr Young said.
Former Prime Minister and architect of Australia's superannuation scheme, Paul Keating, appeared before the aged care royal commission today - and left an impression.
He believes aged care in Australia should operate under a HECS-style arrangement where costs are recouped from people's estates once they die.
Under Mr Keating's system, every Australian would be given a loan from the Commonwealth to cover their care which would later be claimed back from their assets. If the assets did not cover the cost, the Commonwealth would pick up the tab.
Let the debate ensue.
And if that won't prompt discussion around the dinner table tonight, how about this ... breach the 20-person limit for gatherings in NSW and expect a fine. Everyone. Not just the organiser. EVERYONE cops a $1000 fine.
Hit 'em where it hurts, eh?
Did you know you can receive this daily digest by email? Sign up here
News you need to know
- Christmas crackdown: $1000 fines for everyone at party with more than 20 guests
- Regional Victoria has reached the 'second step', what happens now?
- NSW Health warns of 'concerning' low test numbers
- Ever watched 100-plus humpbacks at a seafood buffet?
- The Northern Territory is officially coronavirus-free
- The tiny town that's now on Australia's space frontier
- Border closures dominate national debate
- Death threats taking a toll on Qlueensland Chielf Health Officer