Australia Pushing Vaccines

Tighter restrictions took effect in Australia's largest city, Sydney. As of Monday, masks are mandated outside the home, except when exercising, and a nighttime curfew is in place in the 12 worst-affected council areas. Last month, the federal government unveiled a four-stage plan to relax restrictions once 70% of its 25 million people aged over 16 are vaccinated, with stringent lockdowns "unlikely" to be required at that point. When vaccination coverage reaches 80%, only "highly targeted lockdowns" would be necessary, and inoculated Australians would be free to travel interstate. Vaccinations are running at a record pace, but the target of 80% fully vaccinated will not be reached until December at the current rate.