The Australian government has launched the National COVID-19 Health Management Plan for 2023. The National Plan reflects a consistent approach across Australia, agreed by National Cabinet on 30 September 2022, to transition the COVID-19 response, the clear priority is to minimise the incidence of death and severe illness, particularly focusing on those most at risk.

It will ensure Australia’s health system has the capacity and capability to respond to future waves and variants; promote uptake of vaccination and treatments; and slow the spread of transmission.

Importantly, the National Plan recognises that COVID-19 continues to disproportionally impact some Australians and therefore the Australian Government will continue to support those most at risk.

The plan outlines a suite of measures, which provide vaccine certainty, with a forward plan for vaccine procurement and administration;  empower the community to make informed choices to protect themselves and their loved ones; take pressure off hospitals by ensuring people can seek care in the community, where and when they need it; provide additional help for aged care, First Nations, disability and multicultural communities;  support effective COVID-19 testing to limit the spread and ensure that those most at risk of severe disease have fast access to care and treatments; and strengthen the National Medical Stockpile safety net and pandemic preparedness capability to ensure Australia remains well-protected and prepared into the future