Thousands of Australians stranded in Europe are in dire straits following the decision by Emirates to suspend outbound flights from the UK.
The decision came following the British government’s closure of its border to the United Arab Emirates causing Dubai, a key transit hub, to be off limits until further notice.
There are fears that Etihad could soon follow.
Australia’s Health Minister Greg Hunt indicated the federal government could charter extra repatriation flights should these travel bans remain in place, affecting nearly 40,000 Australians stranded overseas.
The health minister said the fact Australia has gone 12 days without community transmission when there have been over 100 million cases of COVID-19 worldwide is an “immensely powerful reminder of Australia’s circumstances”.
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Mr Hunt hosed down concerns about one of the coronavirus vaccines after Germany said it was not recommended for people over 65 years, and he gave assurances that any vaccine approved for use in Australia, including AstraZeneca, will be thoroughly vetted.
“Our approach will be led by what we believe will be the best medical regulator in the world, the Therapeutic Goods Administration, they are strong, they are independent, they are fearless, they are exactly what you want, they are thorough and we will be guided by them and their judgements.”
