COVID-19 vaccination clinic in Sydney. Source: Gladys Berejiklian/Facebook.
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  • Victoria has recorded its highest number of daily COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began, with 950 new infections
  • NSW also notched up a grim new milestone, with 15 new deaths recorded overnight — the state’s largest number of deaths in a 24-hour period
  • Neighbouring Queensland is grappling with a potential outbreak after another local tested positive for the virus on Wednesday
  • The State Government is debating moving this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final to Townsville as new restrictions are implemented

Victoria has recorded its highest number of daily COVID-19 cases since the pandemic began, smashing previous records.

The state recorded 950 new locally acquired cases on Wednesday, as well as seven additional deaths.

More than 370 people are in hospital in Victoria, including 81 people who are in critical care and 55 people on ventilators.

NSW also recorded a grim new milestone on Wednesday, recording its highest number of daily deaths since COVID-19 first hit its shores.

A total of 15 people died overnight after catching the virus, including two people aged in their 40s. Nine of the 15 people were unvaccinated.

NSW notched up 863 new locally acquired COVID-19 cases today, with just over 86 per cent of the state’s population having received their first vaccine.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said she expected the state to hit the 90 per cent first dose target by next week, allowing for further easing of restrictions.

Victoria was expected to reach its 80 per cent first dose milestone yesterday, with Melbourne residents now able to travel within a 15 kilometre radius.

Queensland is yet to hit 70 per cent first doses and the state is now grappling with a potential outbreak.

Another local tested positive for the virus on Wednesday and a truck driver from NSW has entered Queensland while infectious.

As a result mandatory mask rules will come into effect for the Gold Coast, with mask rules already in place in and around Brisbane.

The Queensland Government is debating moving this Sunday’s NRL Grand Final from Brisbane amid this latest outbreak.

If the number of new COVID-19 cases in Queensland’s south continues to rise, the blockbuster game could be moved to Townsville.

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