A sign that the escalating tensions between the Federal and State Governments appeared to have been put on hold?
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has thanked Daniel Andrews for suspending elective surgery in an apparent sign of unity between the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments after the Premier and the Federal Health Minister traded barbs over the COVID-19 aged care crisis in the state on Tuesday.
Health Minister Greg Hunt had accused Daniel Andrews of making a “dangerous statement” after the Premier alleged staff were not providing appropriate care at ‘private’ [For Profit and Not For Profit] Victorian aged care homes – compared to ‘public’ aged care homes which he is understood to be referring to which are State Government-owned.
As we reported here, Mr Andrews said he did not have confidence in staff and management at several ‘private’ facilities to “provide the care that is appropriate to keep their residents safe”.
But within 24 hours, the mood seemed to have changed.
While the PM pointed the finger at Victoria over the nation’s growing coronavirus outbreak, labelling the latest spike “the Victorian wave”, he praised Mr Andrews for postponing elective surgery.
“I thank the Premier also for his agreement to that step – working together to solve the problem,” Mr Morrison said at a press conference in Canberra yesterday.
The PM also showed support for Mr Andrews when addressing community transmission in the state.
“Where there is sustained community transmission, it is inevitable that this will find its way into aged care facilities,” Mr Morrison said
“When it rains, everyone gets wet … as the Victorian Premier rightly said, if you are ill, do not go to work.”
