Nearly 195,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been given across the North Coast since the national vaccination program commenced. The North Coast is on par with state and national averages and it’s great to see vaccination rates have increased over the past week.
The Australian Government’s most recent geographic vaccination rates show more than 45% of the eligible North Coast population has had one vaccine dose, compared to 46% of the eligible NSW population and 44% Australia-wide.
Within the North Coast region, first dose rates are:
- Mid North Coast – 49.2%
- Coffs Harbour-Grafton – 44.4%
- Richmond-Tweed – 42.5%
Almost 20% of the eligible North Coast population has received their second dose, compared to 23% in NSW and 22.5% overall in Australia.
Although our second dose rate is a little lower than the NSW and national average, it is increasing in line with supply availability. It’s also in line with other regional areas in NSW. This may be because in outbreak areas like Sydney, second AstraZeneca doses are being brought forward, so people are getting them more quickly than here.
Overall, the figures are pleasing. Demand is still exceeding current supply for our region, showing there is strong support to get vaccinated. It’s great to see our communities getting behind the vaccination program and doing everything we can to protect ourselves and those around us from the threat of COVID-19.
Thankyou to our vaccination providers who are working tirelessly to ensure people can get vaccinated as early as possible.