By Oliver Lees
Bulla and Clarkefield have been identified in a list of 27 Melbourne postcodes with a lower first vaccination coverage than the state average of 80 per cent, as parts of regional Victoria begin trials of the vaccinated economy.
According to the data released by the Department of Health last week, 70 to 75 per cent of Bulla’s eligible population had received a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 40 to 45 per cent had received their second dose.
In Clarkefield, only 55 to 60 per cent had received the first jab, while 35 to 40 per cent had received their second dose.
Meanwhile Mt Macedon is among the most vaccinated postcodes in the state, with 90 to 95 per cent of eligible residents having received a first dose and 70 to 75 per cent already fully vaccinated.
Premier Daniel Andrews has earmarked reaching 80 per cent of the state’s population having received two doses of COVID-19 vaccine as a crucial step in the state’s roadmap, with greater easing of restrictions – including a removal of the barrier between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria – when that milestone is reached.
Sunbury MP Josh Bull urged the community to do its bit to help the state reopen.
“Our vaccination program will focus on uplifting vaccination rates in these suburbs [Bulla, Clarkefield] from current first dose coverage rates of under 75 per cent, to 80 per cent and beyond,” Mr Bull said.
“This is my call to action – get vaccinated, protect yourselves and your loved ones.
“Remember, every vaccine counts and every vaccine is a step closer to ending these lockdowns.
The state recorded 1612 cases in the 24 hours to Monday morning, taking the total number of active cases in the state to 19,012.
Regional trials of the state’s vaccinated economy plan kicked off this week, with participating businesses in Bendigo among those that will test greater capacity among patrons that are fully vaccinated.
