2021-04-16
The Australian Greens are calling for the establishment of a no-fault vaccine compensation scheme in Australia.
“There are already 25 countries around the world, including the US, UK and New Zealand, that have no-fault vaccine compensation schemes in place and it’s time for Australia to join them”, Australian Greens spokesperson on Health Senator Rachel Siewert said.
“Having a no-fault vaccine compensation scheme in place will ensure people don’t need to pursue compensation through the legal system in the rare event of adverse side effects.
“Such a scheme could also increase vaccine confidence in Covid-19 vaccines and promote good public health policy.
“It’s unclear whether the absence of a no-fault vaccine compensation scheme is holding Australia back from signing a deal with Moderna. This is unacceptable. The Government needs to be using every available resource to diversify and expand our vaccine portfolio.
“Without a clear timetable and new vaccine deals, Australians will be waiting until 2022 to be vaccinated. The Government must urgently act to fix this mess, stop the blame game and lay out a new plan.”