A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea. The patient had ordered the drug online.

The Guradian quoted hospital's toxicologist who said that increasing number of people were being brought to hospitals after taking unproven medicines to treat Covid infection.

“There’s no evidence to support the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. Don’t look for magic cures online, and don’t rely on what’s being peddled on the internet, because none of them work,” said the toxicologist.

Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly has strongly requested the public not to take unproven medicines to treat Covid infection.&nbsp;

“The reality is, there are many trials that have been done into ivermectin, not a single one of them have shown to be effective,” he said as quoted by The Guardian.

Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication. In Australia, it is approved for treatment of round worm infection, river-blindness and scabies.

A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea.

A Covid patient was admitted to Sydney's Westmead hospital after overdosing on ivermectin and other drugs in order to treat Covid infection. The patient was suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea. The patient had ordered the drug online. The Guradian quoted hospital's toxicologist who said that increasing number of people were being brought to hospitals after taking unproven medicines to treat Covid infection. “There’s no evidence to support the use of ivermectin to treat Covid-19. Don’t look for magic cures online, and don’t rely on what’s being peddled on the internet, because none of them work,” said the toxicologist. Australia's chief medical officer Paul Kelly has strongly requested the public not to take unproven medicines to treat Covid infection. “The reality is, there are many trials that have been done into ivermectin, not a single one of them have shown to be effective,” he said as quoted by The Guardian. Ivermectin is an anti-parasitic medication. In Australia, it is approved for treatment of round worm infection, river-blindness and scabies.

Australia: Covid patient overdoses on ivermectin, admitted to Sydney hospital

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began.&nbsp;

Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients.

The city is struggling to stamp out a surge in the fast-spreading Delta variant as daily infections are hitting record levels even after two months under lockdown.

New South Wales (NSW) state reported 1,029 new locally acquired cases, exceeding the previous record of 919 a day earlier.&nbsp;

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Of the new cases, 969 were detected in greater Sydney, up from 838.

State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the authorities had quadrupled the number of the state's intensive care ventilators to 2,000 early last year.&nbsp;

Although the system is "under pressure", it can withstand the current crisis once vaccination rates rise, she said.

"It might be different to the help you got before because of the situation, but please know the system is kicking in," Berejiklian said at a televised media conference.

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began. Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients.

Australia's new daily cases of COVID-19 topped 1,000 for the first time since the pandemic began. Two major hospitals in Sydney have set up emergency outdoor tents to help deal with a rise in patients. The city is struggling to stamp out a surge in the fast-spreading Delta variant as daily infections are hitting record levels even after two months under lockdown. New South Wales (NSW) state reported 1,029 new locally acquired cases, exceeding the previous record of 919 a day earlier. Also read | 'Terror threat' at Kabul airport, say US and allies amid evacuation Of the new cases, 969 were detected in greater Sydney, up from 838. State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said that the authorities had quadrupled the number of the state's intensive care ventilators to 2,000 early last year. Although the system is "under pressure", it can withstand the current crisis once vaccination rates rise, she said. "It might be different to the help you got before because of the situation, but please know the system is kicking in," Berejiklian said at a televised media conference.

Australia sees a record high in COVID-19 cases

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections.

Officials reported a total of 886 cases in New South Wales and Victoria states, with the vast bulk in&nbsp;Sydney, which is the epicentre of the Delta variant-fuelled outbreak.

With other states and territories still to report daily numbers, new infections have already exceeded the previous single-day high for the pandemic of 754 cases on Thursday.

"We are in a very serious situation here in New South Wales," state Health Minister Brad Hazzard said. "There is no time now to be selfish, it's time to think of the broader community and your families."

Sydney, a city of more than 5 million people, has been in a strict lockdown&nbsp;for weeks now, failing so far to contain an outbreak that has spread across internal borders and as far as neighbouring New Zealand.

New South Wales officials reported three deaths and 516 people in hospital on Saturday. Of the 85 people in intensive care, 76 were unvaccinated, officials said.

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At least 96 people were active in community during their infectious period, and there were a number of breaches of public health orders, all slowing the efforts to curtail the outbreak.

More than 1,500 police officers were deployed on&nbsp;Sydney's streets on Saturday, trains were ordered to bypass major city stations and rideshares were banned to the city centre as police tried to prevent an unauthorised anti-lockdown protest.

Australian media reported that a similar protest was planned in Melbourne, with Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews on Saturday expanding a lockdown in that city to entire state as he reported 61 new locally acquired cases&nbsp;

At least 39 of the new Victoria cases were active in community while infectious, raising concerns over officials' ability to gain control over the outbreak. Eighteen people were in hospital, eight in intensive care and six on ventilators.

Australia's COVID-19 numbers are still relatively low compared to other developed countries, with just over 43,000 cases and 978 deaths, but the latest outbreak has seen a significant resurgence in cases.

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of Sydney on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections.

Australian police patrolled the streets and blocked transport into the centre of Sydney on Saturday to prevent a planned anti-lockdown protest as the country reported a record high daily number of new COVID-19 infections. Officials reported a total of 886 cases in New South Wales and Victoria states, with the vast bulk in Sydney, which is the epicentre of the Delta variant-fuelled outbreak. With other states and territories still to report daily numbers, new infections have already exceeded the previous single-day high for the pandemic of 754 cases on Thursday. "We are in a very serious situation here in New South Wales," state Health Minister Brad Hazzard said. "There is no time now to be selfish, it's time to think of the broader community and your families." Sydney, a city of more than 5 million people, has been in a strict lockdown for weeks now, failing so far to contain an outbreak that has spread across internal borders and as far as neighbouring New Zealand. New South Wales officials reported three deaths and 516 people in hospital on Saturday. Of the 85 people in intensive care, 76 were unvaccinated, officials said. Also read | Experts look at toxic algae after California family is found dead on hiking trail At least 96 people were active in community during their infectious period, and there were a number of breaches of public health orders, all slowing the efforts to curtail the outbreak. More than 1,500 police officers were deployed on Sydney's streets on Saturday, trains were ordered to bypass major city stations and rideshares were banned to the city centre as police tried to prevent an unauthorised anti-lockdown protest. Australian media reported that a similar protest was planned in Melbourne, with Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews on Saturday expanding a lockdown in that city to entire state as he reported 61 new locally acquired cases At least 39 of the new Victoria cases were active in community while infectious, raising concerns over officials' ability to gain control over the outbreak. Eighteen people were in hospital, eight in intensive care and six on ventilators. Australia's COVID-19 numbers are still relatively low compared to other developed countries, with just over 43,000 cases and 978 deaths, but the latest outbreak has seen a significant resurgence in cases.

Australia reports record COVID-19 cases as police block Sydney protest

Sydney&nbsp;extended its two-month-old&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;for another month and introduced a&nbsp;partial&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the "difficult" decision, telling the city's population of five million it was time to "bunker down".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately the case numbers continue to grow," she said. "This is what life will look like for most of us until the end of September."

For much of the pandemic,&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;saw very few virus cases.&nbsp;

But the city is now reporting more than 600 cases each day, straining contact tracing efforts,&nbsp;and that number shows little sign of shrinking.&nbsp;

Stay-at-home orders will now remain in place across the city until the end of September and residents in virus hotspots will also be subject to a nighttime&nbsp;curfew&nbsp;and limited to one hour of outdoor exercise a day.

Around 1,000 defence force personnel are helping police implement restrictions, as weary residents increasingly bend the rules.&nbsp;

With the number of deaths rising steadily and the virus spreading to regional areas, Australia is racing to get jabs in arms.

Just 30 percent of the population is currently fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

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Meanwhile, there are growing concerns about vulnerable Aboriginal communities in the New South Wales Outback, where the virus is now spreading.

The entire population of Wilcannia, a small dusty town ringed by several ancient Aboriginal sites -- have been asked to get tested after a funeral was identified as a potential super-spreader event.

A local health department spokesman told AFP officials were going door-to-door urging locals to get tested for the virus, while a sports field has been converted into a testing site.

Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia residents had put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop — fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community.&nbsp;

New South Wales authorities are also facing growing anger from other Australian states, where the virus cases linked to the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;outbreak have emerged.

Sydney extended its two-month-old lockdown for another month and introduced a partial curfew Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak.

Sydney extended its two-month-old lockdown for another month and introduced a partial curfew Friday, as Australia's largest city struggled to contain a fast-spreading coronavirus outbreak. New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the "difficult" decision, telling the city's population of five million it was time to "bunker down". "Unfortunately the case numbers continue to grow," she said. "This is what life will look like for most of us until the end of September." For much of the pandemic, Sydney saw very few virus cases. But the city is now reporting more than 600 cases each day, straining contact tracing efforts, and that number shows little sign of shrinking. Stay-at-home orders will now remain in place across the city until the end of September and residents in virus hotspots will also be subject to a nighttime curfew and limited to one hour of outdoor exercise a day. Around 1,000 defence force personnel are helping police implement restrictions, as weary residents increasingly bend the rules. With the number of deaths rising steadily and the virus spreading to regional areas, Australia is racing to get jabs in arms. Just 30 percent of the population is currently fully vaccinated. Also read | WHO says 49 Ebola contact cases identified in Ivory Coast Meanwhile, there are growing concerns about vulnerable Aboriginal communities in the New South Wales Outback, where the virus is now spreading. The entire population of Wilcannia, a small dusty town ringed by several ancient Aboriginal sites -- have been asked to get tested after a funeral was identified as a potential super-spreader event. A local health department spokesman told AFP officials were going door-to-door urging locals to get tested for the virus, while a sports field has been converted into a testing site. Early in the pandemic, Wilcannia residents had put up signs on the town's limits asking travellers not to stop — fearing the virus could obliterate an already vulnerable community. New South Wales authorities are also facing growing anger from other Australian states, where the virus cases linked to the Sydney outbreak have emerged.

Sydney extends lockdown, imposes partial curfew

Shoppers in a&nbsp;Sydney supermarket were in for a shocking surprise when they were greeted by a&nbsp;three-metre-long python&nbsp;at a shelf in the spice section.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The&nbsp;spokesperson for the supermarket, Woolworths said, “It was a slippery and rare customer.”&nbsp;

In a Facebook post,&nbsp;shopper Hilary Leigh wrote&nbsp;“Only in Australia!” while&nbsp;sharing a video of the large snake at the&nbsp;Glenorie&nbsp;supermarket in Sydney’s north-west.&nbsp;

Another&nbsp;shopper Helaina Alati, who&nbsp;was browsing spices for dinner, was surprised to see&nbsp;the diamond python&nbsp;when she turned her head to the right and&nbsp;he was&nbsp;just 20cm from&nbsp;her&nbsp;face.&nbsp;She told Guardian Australia,&nbsp;“It just wanted to say hello.”&nbsp;

It was initially curled up behind the spices. She added,&nbsp;“Dozens of people must have walked past it.&nbsp;It’s lucky I was the one it popped out to. Most people would have freaked out. It was chill, and not aggressive at all.”&nbsp;

The supermarket spokesperson said, after the reptile was sighted,&nbsp;Woolworths staff “reacted quickly and calmly” to cordon off the area for customer safety.&nbsp;

The Australian Museum says&nbsp;diamond pythons are found in bushland areas and the national parks of Sydney, but often go undetected because of their nocturnal and slow-moving habits.&nbsp;

Shoppers in a Sydney supermarket were in for a shocking surprise when they were greeted by a three-metre-long python at a shelf in the spice section. The spokesperson for the supermarket, Woolworths said, “It was a slippery and rare customer.

Shoppers in a Sydney supermarket were in for a shocking surprise when they were greeted by a three-metre-long python at a shelf in the spice section. The spokesperson for the supermarket, Woolworths said, “It was a slippery and rare customer.” In a Facebook post, shopper Hilary Leigh wrote “Only in Australia!” while sharing a video of the large snake at the Glenorie supermarket in Sydney’s north-west. Another shopper Helaina Alati, who was browsing spices for dinner, was surprised to see the diamond python when she turned her head to the right and he was just 20cm from her face. She told Guardian Australia, “It just wanted to say hello.” It was initially curled up behind the spices. She added, “Dozens of people must have walked past it. It’s lucky I was the one it popped out to. Most people would have freaked out. It was chill, and not aggressive at all.” The supermarket spokesperson said, after the reptile was sighted, Woolworths staff “reacted quickly and calmly” to cordon off the area for customer safety. The Australian Museum says diamond pythons are found in bushland areas and the national parks of Sydney, but often go undetected because of their nocturnal and slow-moving habits.

Rare customer: 3-metre-long python shows up, sends jitters in Sydney supermarket 

Sydney reported a record number of new COVID-19 cases and five virus deaths Thursday, as authorities expanded the lockdown in Australia's largest city to neighbouring regions.&nbsp;

Six weeks after Sydney's five million residents were told to stay home, the number of new infections in New South Wales state grew to 262, the largest daily tally since the pandemic began.

Health officials said almost all the new cases were in Sydney, but a handful of infections in other districts prompted state premier Gladys Berejiklian to widen stay-at-home restrictions.

Five positive tests in Newcastle,&nbsp;a coastal city of 320,000 people north of Sydney&nbsp;prompted authorities to shutter schools and tell residents to stay home for at least a week.

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Five people aged in their 60s-80s have died in Sydney in the past 24 hours, none of whom were fully vaccinated.&nbsp;

"I cannot stress enough how&nbsp;it's so important for everybody of&nbsp;all ages to come forward and get the&nbsp;vaccine," Berejiklian said.

Barely 20 percent of Australians have been fully vaccinated, thanks to acute supply problems and pockets of vaccine hesitancy.

Until now, Australia has dodged the worst ravages of the pandemic.&nbsp;

But the country is struggling to contain an outbreak of the quick-spreading Delta variant.

Since a Sydney driver was infected by an international flight crew in mid-June, New South Wales has recorded 4,319 locally acquired cases and half the country's 25 million people have been in some form of lockdown.

Sydney reported a record number of new COVID-19 cases and five virus deaths Thursday, as authorities expanded the lockdown in Australia's largest city to neighbouring regions.

Sydney reported a record number of new COVID-19 cases and five virus deaths Thursday, as authorities expanded the lockdown in Australia's largest city to neighbouring regions. Six weeks after Sydney's five million residents were told to stay home, the number of new infections in New South Wales state grew to 262, the largest daily tally since the pandemic began. Health officials said almost all the new cases were in Sydney, but a handful of infections in other districts prompted state premier Gladys Berejiklian to widen stay-at-home restrictions. Five positive tests in Newcastle, a coastal city of 320,000 people north of Sydney prompted authorities to shutter schools and tell residents to stay home for at least a week. Also read | Tokyo Olympics: American Sydney McLaughlin shatters world record to win women's 400 hurdles Five people aged in their 60s-80s have died in Sydney in the past 24 hours, none of whom were fully vaccinated. "I cannot stress enough how it's so important for everybody of all ages to come forward and get the vaccine," Berejiklian said. Barely 20 percent of Australians have been fully vaccinated, thanks to acute supply problems and pockets of vaccine hesitancy. Until now, Australia has dodged the worst ravages of the pandemic. But the country is struggling to contain an outbreak of the quick-spreading Delta variant. Since a Sydney driver was infected by an international flight crew in mid-June, New South Wales has recorded 4,319 locally acquired cases and half the country's 25 million people have been in some form of lockdown.

Sydney posts record COVID-19 cases as lockdown is widened

Australian home prices rose in July even as the Coronavirus lockdown curbed auctions in Sydney. A lockdown did nothing to stop Sydney gaining another 2.0% in the month, to be up 18.2% on a year ago. The red-hot market has provided a huge windfall to consumer wealth and confidence.

Australian home prices rise even amidst lockdown in Sydney

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules. 
 
Sydney, Australia's largest city, is into its sixth week of a lockdown as it struggles with a spike in infections that added nearly 3,500 cases since the first one was detected in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. 
 
Officials in New South Wales, of which Sydney is the capital, have implored residents to stay home to prevent more surges and brought in the military to help police enforce compliance after some defied lockdown rules. 
 
Some 300 army personnel, who will be unarmed and under police command, will go door to door to ensure people who have tested positive are isolating at their homes. 
 
After a steady rise in new cases, the lockdown rules in southeast Queensland, which includes Brisbane, will run until Sunday as officials fear there could be more undetected cases in the community and urged residents to get tested. Restrictions were due to end Tuesday evening. 
 
Thirteen locally acquired cases were detected in Queensland state, up from nine a day earlier. 
 
Australia is going through a cycle of stop-and-start lockdowns in several cities after the emergence of the fast-moving Delta strain and such restrictions are likely to persist until the country hits a higher vaccination coverage. 
 
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has promised lockdowns would be "less likely" once the country inoculates 70% of its population above 16 years, which now stands at 19%. Morrison expects to hit that mark by the end of the year. 
 
Although Australia's vaccination drive has lagged many other developed economies, it has so far fared much better in keeping its coronavirus numbers relatively low, with just under 34,400 cases and 924 deaths.

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules.

Australian officials on Monday extended a snap three-day lockdown in the city of Brisbane and some neighbouring regions while hundreds of army personnel began patrolling Sydney to help enforce COVID-19 lockdown rules. Sydney, Australia's largest city, is into its sixth week of a lockdown as it struggles with a spike in infections that added nearly 3,500 cases since the first one was detected in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. Officials in New South Wales, of which Sydney is the capital, have implored residents to stay home to prevent more surges and brought in the military to help police enforce compliance after some defied lockdown rules. Some 300 army personnel, who will be unarmed and under police command, will go door to door to ensure people who have tested positive are isolating at their homes. After a steady rise in new cases, the lockdown rules in southeast Queensland, which includes Brisbane, will run until Sunday as officials fear there could be more undetected cases in the community and urged residents to get tested. Restrictions were due to end Tuesday evening. Thirteen locally acquired cases were detected in Queensland state, up from nine a day earlier. Australia is going through a cycle of stop-and-start lockdowns in several cities after the emergence of the fast-moving Delta strain and such restrictions are likely to persist until the country hits a higher vaccination coverage. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has promised lockdowns would be "less likely" once the country inoculates 70% of its population above 16 years, which now stands at 19%. Morrison expects to hit that mark by the end of the year. Although Australia's vaccination drive has lagged many other developed economies, it has so far fared much better in keeping its coronavirus numbers relatively low, with just under 34,400 cases and 924 deaths.

Army patrols Sydney streets as Brisbane extends COVID-19 lockdown

Australia's&nbsp;military&nbsp;will&nbsp;help&nbsp;enforce&nbsp;a&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;after the city of 6 million posted a record daily&nbsp;rise&nbsp;in&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;on Thursday and state authorities said the outbreak was likely to get worse.

The&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;of Australia's biggest city has increased pressure on Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is now trailing in opinion polls, and heightened concern that Australia's A$2 trillion ($1.5 trillion) economy could slide into recession.

Despite an extended&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;since an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta variant, 239 new locally acquired coronavirus&nbsp;cases&nbsp;were recorded in the city over a 24-hour period, the biggest daily&nbsp;rise&nbsp;since the pandemic began.

"We can only assume that things are likely to get worse before they get better given the quantity of people infectious in the community," said Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of New South Wales state, of which&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;is the capital.

Berejiklian said one new death took the toll from the latest outbreak to 13 and the national total was now 921.

With little sign that of restrictions reducing infections, Berejiklian said new curbs would be imposed on the southwestern and western areas of&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;where the majority of&nbsp;COVID-19&nbsp;cases&nbsp;are being found.

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Residents there will be forced to wear masks outdoors and to stay within five km (three miles) of their homes.

With even tighter restrictions set to begin on Friday, New South Wales Police said it had asked for 300&nbsp;military&nbsp;personnel to&nbsp;help&nbsp;enforce&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;orders.

The personnel will deploy on Friday, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said, and will begin assisting police with ensuring compliance with restrictions next week.

Lockdown Extended

Berejiklian extended the&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;by another month on Wednesday.

New South Wales accounts for over a third of Australia's economy. Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said he expected the national economy to shrink in the September quarter but the ability to avoid a technical recession would depend on whether New South Wales can avoid a longer&nbsp;lockdown.

"With respect to the December quarter, that does depend to a large extent how successful New South Wales, our largest state economy, is in getting on top of this virus," Frydenberg told the&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;Broadcasting Corp.

Berejiklian has said restrictions need to remain as too few people in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;are vaccinated amid tight supplies of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, with which Australia had hoped to inoculate everyone under 60 years old.

All adults in&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;have been urged to seek an AstraZeneca vaccine. Some, citing rare blood clots, are reluctant and would prefer to wait several months when Australia is expected to receive additional Pfizer supplies.

Australia's military will help enforce a lockdown in Sydney after the city of 6 million posted a record daily rise in COVID-19 cases on Thursday and state authorities said the outbreak was likely to get worse.

Australia's military will help enforce a lockdown in Sydney after the city of 6 million posted a record daily rise in COVID-19 cases on Thursday and state authorities said the outbreak was likely to get worse. The lockdown of Australia's biggest city has increased pressure on Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is now trailing in opinion polls, and heightened concern that Australia's A$2 trillion ($1.5 trillion) economy could slide into recession. Despite an extended lockdown in Sydney since an outbreak of the highly infectious Delta variant, 239 new locally acquired coronavirus cases were recorded in the city over a 24-hour period, the biggest daily rise since the pandemic began. "We can only assume that things are likely to get worse before they get better given the quantity of people infectious in the community," said Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of New South Wales state, of which Sydney is the capital. Berejiklian said one new death took the toll from the latest outbreak to 13 and the national total was now 921. With little sign that of restrictions reducing infections, Berejiklian said new curbs would be imposed on the southwestern and western areas of Sydney where the majority of COVID-19 cases are being found. Also read | Sydney lockdown extended by four weeks as virus outbreak grows Residents there will be forced to wear masks outdoors and to stay within five km (three miles) of their homes. With even tighter restrictions set to begin on Friday, New South Wales Police said it had asked for 300 military personnel to help enforce lockdown orders. The personnel will deploy on Friday, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said, and will begin assisting police with ensuring compliance with restrictions next week. Lockdown Extended Berejiklian extended the Sydney lockdown by another month on Wednesday. New South Wales accounts for over a third of Australia's economy. Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said he expected the national economy to shrink in the September quarter but the ability to avoid a technical recession would depend on whether New South Wales can avoid a longer lockdown. "With respect to the December quarter, that does depend to a large extent how successful New South Wales, our largest state economy, is in getting on top of this virus," Frydenberg told the Australian Broadcasting Corp. Berejiklian has said restrictions need to remain as too few people in Sydney are vaccinated amid tight supplies of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, with which Australia had hoped to inoculate everyone under 60 years old. All adults in Sydney have been urged to seek an AstraZeneca vaccine. Some, citing rare blood clots, are reluctant and would prefer to wait several months when Australia is expected to receive additional Pfizer supplies.

Australian military to help enforce Sydney COVID-19 lockdown as cases rise

Millions of Sydney residents will spend another month in lockdown, authorities announced Wednesday, citing a still-growing coronavirus outbreak and low vaccination rates.

Australia's biggest city had been due to exit lockdown on July 30 after five weeks but the restrictions will remain in place until August 28 as case numbers continued to climb.

"I appreciate&nbsp;personally what we're asking people&nbsp;do for the next four weeks but it is&nbsp;because we want to keep our&nbsp;community safe and want to make sure&nbsp;we can bounce back as quickly as&nbsp;possible," New South Wales state premier Gladys Berejiklian said.

Officials announced 177 new cases linked to the Sydney outbreak, which began mid-June when a driver for an international flight crew contracted the virus.

People living in hotspots have been urged not to leave their neighbourhoods, but those living alone will be allowed to create a "singles bubble" with another person.

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Berejiklian said police would step up compliance efforts, while imploring Sydneysiders to report others breaking the rules.

"We really need people to&nbsp;do the right thing at all times. Do&nbsp;not let your guard down," she said.

The announcement came as Melbourne awoke to the end of its fifth virus lockdown, after beating the Delta variant for the second time in recent months through "determination and hard work",&nbsp;according to Victoria state premier Dan Andrews.

They were among the roughly eight million people in Victoria and South Australia states who exited lockdown overnight&nbsp;after local outbreaks of the highly contagious variant were contained.

Australia&nbsp;was lauded for its early pandemic success, after it slammed shut its international borders and moved quickly to quash COVID-19&nbsp;clusters.

But with a largely unvaccinated population, it has struggled to respond to the Delta variant, repeatedly sending cities into lockdown.

About 13 per cent of Australians have been vaccinated, with low supplies of Pfizer-BioNTech shots and scepticism about the AstraZeneca jab.

The country has recorded more than 33,000 infections and 921 coronavirus-related deaths in a population of 25 million.

Millions of Sydney residents will spend another month in lockdown, authorities announced Wednesday, citing a still-growing coronavirus outbreak and low vaccination rates.

Millions of Sydney residents will spend another month in lockdown, authorities announced Wednesday, citing a still-growing coronavirus outbreak and low vaccination rates. Australia's biggest city had been due to exit lockdown on July 30 after five weeks but the restrictions will remain in place until August 28 as case numbers continued to climb. "I appreciate personally what we're asking people do for the next four weeks but it is because we want to keep our community safe and want to make sure we can bounce back as quickly as possible," New South Wales state premier Gladys Berejiklian said. Officials announced 177 new cases linked to the Sydney outbreak, which began mid-June when a driver for an international flight crew contracted the virus. People living in hotspots have been urged not to leave their neighbourhoods, but those living alone will be allowed to create a "singles bubble" with another person. Also read | Australia: Cockatoos learn how to open bin's lid by watching other birds Berejiklian said police would step up compliance efforts, while imploring Sydneysiders to report others breaking the rules. "We really need people to do the right thing at all times. Do not let your guard down," she said. The announcement came as Melbourne awoke to the end of its fifth virus lockdown, after beating the Delta variant for the second time in recent months through "determination and hard work", according to Victoria state premier Dan Andrews. They were among the roughly eight million people in Victoria and South Australia states who exited lockdown overnight after local outbreaks of the highly contagious variant were contained. Australia was lauded for its early pandemic success, after it slammed shut its international borders and moved quickly to quash COVID-19 clusters. But with a largely unvaccinated population, it has struggled to respond to the Delta variant, repeatedly sending cities into lockdown. About 13 per cent of Australians have been vaccinated, with low supplies of Pfizer-BioNTech shots and scepticism about the AstraZeneca jab. The country has recorded more than 33,000 infections and 921 coronavirus-related deaths in a population of 25 million.

Sydney lockdown extended by four weeks as virus outbreak grows

Thousands of people took out anti-lockdown protests in Sydney, demanding an end to the city’s lockdown, which is entering its fifth week. The protests turned violent as protesters threw potted plants and water bottles at police offices.

Australia: Thousands take out protests in Sydney against lockdown

Australia's New South Wales recorded its second-highest daily increase in locally acquired COVID-19 cases of the year on Sunday.

There were 141 COVID-19 cases reported, down from 163 a day earlier. The outbreak, which began in June, is being driven by the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus, and has now infected 2,081 people in New South Wales.&nbsp;

There are 43 people in intensive care, up from 37 a day earlier.

"In relation to yesterday's protests, can I say how absolutely disgusted I was. It broke my heart," Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of the country's most populous state, told reporters.

"I hope it won't be a setback, but it could be," she said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-outbreak-a-national-emergency-as-covid-19-cases-surge-399885">Also read |&nbsp;Sydney outbreak a 'national emergency' as COVID-19 cases surge</a>

Meanwhile, Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections.

Earlier, Australian authorities ordered more businesses to along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19.

Authorities clamped down on people's movements out of virus hotspots in the city's southwest. Also, locals were banned from leaving their neighbourhoods unless they worked in emergency services or health care.

Melbourne has been the epicentre of the virus in Australia with several areas listed for virus exposure including sports stadiums and shopping centres. The city recorded 18 new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials.

Australia's New South Wales recorded its second-highest daily increase in locally acquired COVID-19 cases of the year on Sunday. There were 141 COVID-19 cases reported, down from 163 a day earlier.

Australia's New South Wales recorded its second-highest daily increase in locally acquired COVID-19 cases of the year on Sunday. There were 141 COVID-19 cases reported, down from 163 a day earlier. The outbreak, which began in June, is being driven by the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus, and has now infected 2,081 people in New South Wales. There are 43 people in intensive care, up from 37 a day earlier. "In relation to yesterday's protests, can I say how absolutely disgusted I was. It broke my heart," Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of the country's most populous state, told reporters. "I hope it won't be a setback, but it could be," she said. Also read | Sydney outbreak a 'national emergency' as COVID-19 cases surge Meanwhile, Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections. Earlier, Australian authorities ordered more businesses to along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19. Authorities clamped down on people's movements out of virus hotspots in the city's southwest. Also, locals were banned from leaving their neighbourhoods unless they worked in emergency services or health care. Melbourne has been the epicentre of the virus in Australia with several areas listed for virus exposure including sports stadiums and shopping centres. The city recorded 18 new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials.

Australians may face longer lockdown as situation worsens

Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections.

"We have an obligation on behalf of the nation to contain the virus," said New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian. "There is no doubt that the numbers are not going in the right direction."&nbsp;

With the virus "spreading everywhere" and half the country's 25 million people currently in lockdown, Berejiklian said the government must "refocus" its glacial vaccine rollout.&nbsp;

Just 12 per cent of Australians have been fully vaccinated.

"We need, at least, more first doses of Pfizer," Berejiklian said while warning Sydney's five million residents that restrictions could run until October.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-tightens-lockdown-amid-a-spike-in-cases-398612">Also read |&nbsp;Sydney tightens lockdown amid a spike in cases</a>

She further announced that non-essential workers in specific areas of Sydney would now be barred from leaving, tightening a lockdown that is almost certain to be formally extended next week.&nbsp;

"It is fairly apparent that we will not be close to zero (cases) next Friday," Berejiklian said. "We will have a clearer view next week on what August, September, and October look like."&nbsp;

Earlier, Australian authorities ordered more businesses to along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19.

Authorities clamped down on people's movements out of virus hotspots in the city's southwest. Also, locals were banned from leaving their neighbourhoods unless they worked in emergency services or health care.

Melbourne has been the epicentre of the virus in Australia with several areas listed for virus exposure including sports stadiums and shopping centres. The city recorded 18 new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials.

Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections.

Sydney's fast-growing COVID-19 outbreak has become a "national emergency," said state leaders as Australia's largest city reported another record number of new infections. "We have an obligation on behalf of the nation to contain the virus," said New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian. "There is no doubt that the numbers are not going in the right direction." With the virus "spreading everywhere" and half the country's 25 million people currently in lockdown, Berejiklian said the government must "refocus" its glacial vaccine rollout. Just 12 per cent of Australians have been fully vaccinated. "We need, at least, more first doses of Pfizer," Berejiklian said while warning Sydney's five million residents that restrictions could run until October. Also read | Sydney tightens lockdown amid a spike in cases She further announced that non-essential workers in specific areas of Sydney would now be barred from leaving, tightening a lockdown that is almost certain to be formally extended next week. "It is fairly apparent that we will not be close to zero (cases) next Friday," Berejiklian said. "We will have a clearer view next week on what August, September, and October look like." Earlier, Australian authorities ordered more businesses to along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19. Authorities clamped down on people's movements out of virus hotspots in the city's southwest. Also, locals were banned from leaving their neighbourhoods unless they worked in emergency services or health care. Melbourne has been the epicentre of the virus in Australia with several areas listed for virus exposure including sports stadiums and shopping centres. The city recorded 18 new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials.

Sydney outbreak a 'national emergency' as COVID-19 cases surge

"I take responsibility for the vaccination programme. I also take responsibility for the challenges we've had. Obviously, some things are within our control, some things that are not."

Australia PM Scott Morrison apologises for slow vaccine rollout

Australian authorities ordered more businesses to close Saturday along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19.

Australian authorities ordered more businesses to close Saturday along with a slew of new restrictions in the country's largest city as a weeks-long lockdown failed to bring down the outbreak of COVID-19. New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian told media in Sydney, "It's not good enough for us to tread water which is what we're doing now; we've to some extent stabilised it, but we're not managing to quash that curve". Also read | Australia's Victoria state put under lockdown amid virus surge Authorities clamped down on people's movements out of virus hotspots in the city's southwest. Also, locals were banned from leaving their neighbourhoods unless they worked in emergency services or health care. Melbourne has been the epicentre of the virus in Australia with several areas listed for virus exposure including sports stadiums and shopping centres. The city recorded 18 new COVID-19 cases worrying health officials. The current lockdown measures come as Australia's vaccination drive continues at a slow pace with just 12 per cent people inoculated amid a shortage of jabs in the country.

Sydney tightens lockdown amid a spike in cases

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday.

The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers. This has raised concerns for a city that is already in its third week of lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-records-first-covid-related-death-as-delta-variant-surges-through-australia-397467">Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia</a>

This increase in cases has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO).

After the record increase of Covid cases, authorities are urging people to follow the rules imposed by the government and stay at home to break the chain of infections. "We just want people to stay at home," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney on Monday. "The virus won't spread if people don't leave home. That is the bottom line."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-graphic-australias-covid-vaccination-awareness-advertisements-backfire-397637">Too graphic: Australia's Covid vaccination awareness advertisements backfire</a>

Sydney is Australia's one of the most populous cities as it houses nearly six million people who have been under a strict lockdown since June 26. However, some breaches have been spotted, especially in the hotel quarantines, which authorities believe have caused the increase in cases.

The increase in Covid cases has also put the Australian government’s slow vaccine rollout in the spotlight. Over the weekend, the federal government rolled out 'graphic'&nbsp;advertisements to spread awareness about the coronavirus. However, these adverts target young people who are not yet eligible for vaccinations. Locals are questioning the slow progress of inoculations and highlighting the government’s inability to procure Covid jabs.

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday. The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers.

A day after recording the first Covid death from locally acquired infection, Sydney has reported record increase in coronavirus cases on Monday. The Australian city reported 112 new coronavirus cases on Monday, which is an increase of 45 per cent from the previous day numbers. This has raised concerns for a city that is already in its third week of lockdown. Also read | Sydney records first Covid-related death as Delta variant surges through Australia This increase in cases has come as Sydney is battling to control the widespread of the Delta variant which has also been labelled as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO). After the record increase of Covid cases, authorities are urging people to follow the rules imposed by the government and stay at home to break the chain of infections. "We just want people to stay at home," New South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney on Monday. "The virus won't spread if people don't leave home. That is the bottom line." Also read | Too graphic: Australia's Covid vaccination awareness advertisements backfire Sydney is Australia's one of the most populous cities as it houses nearly six million people who have been under a strict lockdown since June 26. However, some breaches have been spotted, especially in the hotel quarantines, which authorities believe have caused the increase in cases. The increase in Covid cases has also put the Australian government’s slow vaccine rollout in the spotlight. Over the weekend, the federal government rolled out 'graphic' advertisements to spread awareness about the coronavirus. However, these adverts target young people who are not yet eligible for vaccinations. Locals are questioning the slow progress of inoculations and highlighting the government’s inability to procure Covid jabs.

A day after first Covid death, Sydney now reports record coronavirus cases

Today's figures have prompted a tightening of stay-at-home orders, with tougher rules now in place around outdoor exercise, essential shopping and funerals.

Sydney faces COVID-19 lockdown extension as cases rising dramatically

Australia's New South Wales state on Thursday reported its biggest daily rise in locally acquired cases of COVID-19 for the year as officials struggle to stamp out a growing cluster of the highly infectious Delta variant in Sydney. 
 
New South Wales (NSW) reported 38 new local cases, up from 27 a day earlier, as its capital Sydney prepares for a third week of a lockdown. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cdc-says-delta-variant-dominant-in-us-makes-up-more-than-half-of-covid-19-cases-396567" hreflang="en">CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases</a> 
 
"We don`t want to prolong the lockdown, we don`t want to see Sydney or New South Wales going in and out of lockdown until we have the vast majority of our population vaccinated," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. 
 
Berejiklian implored residents to limit visits to family as data suggested the virus was spreading during such meetings, and urged people with flu-symptoms to take their entire family for COVID-19 tests due to the highly transmissible Delta strain. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-china-records-highest-daily-covid-cases-indonesia-reports-highest-deaths-396547" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: China records highest daily Covid cases, Indonesia reports highest deaths</a> 
 
She has promised this would be the last lockdown Sydney would need to endure in the pandemic although only around 10% of the country has been fully vaccinated. 
 
Of Thursday`s cases, 26 were either in isolation throughout or for part of their infectious period, while 11 spent time in the community while they were infectious. One case is under investigation. 
 
Total infections neared 400 amid the largest outbreak of 2021 in the state, since the first case was detected in the city more than three weeks ago in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. 
 
A strict stay-at-home order had been enforced in Sydney, Australia`s largest city and home to a fifth of the country`s 25 million population, since June 26 for two weeks restricting people`s movements and limiting gatherings. 
 
That was extended on Wednesday until July 16 after restrictions failed to curtail the spread with officials frustrated after finding new infections linked to illegal gatherings and people flouting social distancing rules. 
 
Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries in keeping COVID-19 numbers low, with just under 30,900 cases and 910 deaths, however, a slow vaccination rollout has taken the shine off some of this success.

Australia's New South Wales state on Thursday reported its biggest daily rise in locally acquired cases of COVID-19 for the year as officials struggle to stamp out a growing cluster of the highly infectious Delta variant in Sydney.

Australia's New South Wales state on Thursday reported its biggest daily rise in locally acquired cases of COVID-19 for the year as officials struggle to stamp out a growing cluster of the highly infectious Delta variant in Sydney. New South Wales (NSW) reported 38 new local cases, up from 27 a day earlier, as its capital Sydney prepares for a third week of a lockdown. Also read | CDC says Delta variant dominant in US, makes up more than half of COVID-19 cases "We don`t want to prolong the lockdown, we don`t want to see Sydney or New South Wales going in and out of lockdown until we have the vast majority of our population vaccinated," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. Berejiklian implored residents to limit visits to family as data suggested the virus was spreading during such meetings, and urged people with flu-symptoms to take their entire family for COVID-19 tests due to the highly transmissible Delta strain. Also read | Coronavirus: China records highest daily Covid cases, Indonesia reports highest deaths She has promised this would be the last lockdown Sydney would need to endure in the pandemic although only around 10% of the country has been fully vaccinated. Of Thursday`s cases, 26 were either in isolation throughout or for part of their infectious period, while 11 spent time in the community while they were infectious. One case is under investigation. Total infections neared 400 amid the largest outbreak of 2021 in the state, since the first case was detected in the city more than three weeks ago in a limousine driver who transported overseas airline crew. A strict stay-at-home order had been enforced in Sydney, Australia`s largest city and home to a fifth of the country`s 25 million population, since June 26 for two weeks restricting people`s movements and limiting gatherings. That was extended on Wednesday until July 16 after restrictions failed to curtail the spread with officials frustrated after finding new infections linked to illegal gatherings and people flouting social distancing rules. Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries in keeping COVID-19 numbers low, with just under 30,900 cases and 910 deaths, however, a slow vaccination rollout has taken the shine off some of this success.

Sydney sees worst pandemic day of 2021 as Delta COVID-19 outbreak spreads

Sydney began a two-week lockdown on Sunday as a cluster of cases of the highly infectious coronavirus Delta variant rose to 110 in Australia's largest city, while an outbreak in the northern city of Darwin prompted a hard two-day stay-at-home order. 
 
"Given how contagious this strain of the virus is, we do anticipate that in the next few days, case numbers are likely to increase beyond what we have seen today," News South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told a news briefing in Sydney. 
 
Australia has been more successful in managing the pandemic than many other advanced economies through swift border closures, social distancing rules and high compliance, reporting just over 30,450 cases and 910 COVID-19 deaths. 
 
But the country has confronted an increasing number of small outbreaks in recent months. These have been contained so far through speedy contact tracing, isolation of thousands of people at a time or snap hard lockdowns. 
 
Thirty new infections reported by Sydney on Sunday took the number of Delta variant cases linked to a cluster in the Bondi neighbourhood to 110. Two other cases were under investigation. 
 
The rapid increase in cases and exposure sites persuaded the state government to reluctantly impose a lockdown, under which people can only leave home for essential shopping, work, education, exercise and medical care. 
 
Contact tracers were racing to get in touch with airline passengers after discovering that an attendant on several flights across the country had become infected in Sydney. 
 
Northern Territory, home to some of Australia's most famous ancient Aboriginal culture and a strong mining sector, which saw its first coronavirus case in months on Saturday, reported four locally acquired infections, unrelated to the Sydney outbreak. 
 
The Delta variant infections started with a worker at a gold mine owned by Newmont Corp, now in lockdown. 
 
As authorities have not been able to track down all close contacts of the miner, an immediate 48-hour hard lockdown on Darwin and some surroundings was imposed. 
 
"I would rather regret us going too hard, too early than go too easy and risk it all," Chief Minister Michael Gunner said at a news briefing. 
 
Neighbouring Queensland reported on Sunday two locally acquired COVID-19 cases, with authorities saying both infections were of the Alpha variant, first detected in the United Kingdom in September of 2020. 
 
Western Australia reported one community case, that state authorities suspected was the Delta variant. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Sydney began a two-week lockdown on Sunday as a cluster of cases of the highly infectious coronavirus Delta variant rose to 110 in Australia's largest city, while an outbreak in the northern city of Darwin prompted a hard two-day stay-at-home order.

Sydney began a two-week lockdown on Sunday as a cluster of cases of the highly infectious coronavirus Delta variant rose to 110 in Australia's largest city, while an outbreak in the northern city of Darwin prompted a hard two-day stay-at-home order. "Given how contagious this strain of the virus is, we do anticipate that in the next few days, case numbers are likely to increase beyond what we have seen today," News South Wales state Premier Gladys Berejiklian told a news briefing in Sydney. Australia has been more successful in managing the pandemic than many other advanced economies through swift border closures, social distancing rules and high compliance, reporting just over 30,450 cases and 910 COVID-19 deaths. But the country has confronted an increasing number of small outbreaks in recent months. These have been contained so far through speedy contact tracing, isolation of thousands of people at a time or snap hard lockdowns. Thirty new infections reported by Sydney on Sunday took the number of Delta variant cases linked to a cluster in the Bondi neighbourhood to 110. Two other cases were under investigation. The rapid increase in cases and exposure sites persuaded the state government to reluctantly impose a lockdown, under which people can only leave home for essential shopping, work, education, exercise and medical care. Contact tracers were racing to get in touch with airline passengers after discovering that an attendant on several flights across the country had become infected in Sydney. Northern Territory, home to some of Australia's most famous ancient Aboriginal culture and a strong mining sector, which saw its first coronavirus case in months on Saturday, reported four locally acquired infections, unrelated to the Sydney outbreak. The Delta variant infections started with a worker at a gold mine owned by Newmont Corp, now in lockdown. As authorities have not been able to track down all close contacts of the miner, an immediate 48-hour hard lockdown on Darwin and some surroundings was imposed. "I would rather regret us going too hard, too early than go too easy and risk it all," Chief Minister Michael Gunner said at a news briefing. Neighbouring Queensland reported on Sunday two locally acquired COVID-19 cases, with authorities saying both infections were of the Alpha variant, first detected in the United Kingdom in September of 2020. Western Australia reported one community case, that state authorities suspected was the Delta variant. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Sydney and Darwin in COVID-19 lockdowns

Central Sydney's streets were deserted on Saturday as Australia's largest city began a week-long lockdown to contain the highly contagious Delta coronavirus variant, with authorities warning broader restrictions could follow.

Central Sydney's streets were deserted on Saturday as Australia's largest city began a week-long lockdown to contain the highly contagious Delta coronavirus variant, with authorities warning broader restrictions could follow. More than 80 Covid-19 cases have been reported so far in an infection surge linked to an international flight crew transported to a quarantine hotel from the airport. The flare-up was a shock for a city that had returned to relative normality after months with very few local cases. The sudden curbs took effect at midnight, affecting an estimated one million people across Sydney's business district and affluent eastern suburbs. But the spread of the outbreak beyond the four neighbourhoods already under lockdown was spurring "growing and more intense concern", New South Wales state health minister Brad Hazzard said. "The Delta variant is proving to be a very formidable foe," he told reporters. "No matter what defensive steps were taking at the moment, the virus seems to understand how to counter-attack." Health officials have been alarmed by the rapid spread of the Delta variant first seen in India, noting instances of people passing on the virus during fleeting encounters in shops and then quickly infecting close family contacts. They have flagged a string of new possible virus exposure sites, including a popular city bar, in addition to the scores of businesses and public places already identified as risks. State Premier Gladys Berejiklian said a crisis meeting with public health officials would be held later Saturday to decide whether expanding the lockdown to other areas of Sydney was needed. "I am putting everybody on notice that we may need to extend that during the course of the day or tomorrow," Berejiklian said. Sydney residents subject to the current restrictions have been ordered to stay home for at least a week, only venturing out to purchase essential goods, obtain medical care, exercise, go to school or if they are unable to work from home. An earlier ban on people leaving the city was also extended on Friday, as traces of the virus were detected in sewage in the far-flung outback town of Bourke, about nine hours drive northwest of Sydney. It is the latest in a string of snap "circuit-breaker" lockdowns across major cities around Australia, with most cases linked to returning travellers held in hotel quarantine. Australia has been among the world's most successful countries in containing Covid-19, with just over 30,000 cases and 910 deaths in a population of about 25 million.

Sydney flags broader lockdown as Delta variant cases swell

Residents of four neighbourhoods of central&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;were ordered to remain at home for a week on Friday to contain a growing outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant of Covid-19.

Several dozen cases have been reported this week, linked to a limousine driver infected when he transported an international flight crew from&nbsp;Sydney&nbsp;airport to a quarantine&nbsp;hotel.

The decision to lock down from midnight Friday came as the cluster grew to 65, with state premier Gladys Berejiklian ordering anyone who lived or worked in the affected areas over the past fortnight to stay at home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deaths-outnumber-births-in-britain-for-the-first-time-since-1976-393790">Also Read |&nbsp;Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976</a>

Workers in the city's central business district were included in the restrictions over fears commuters were potentially spreading the virus into other parts of the city, Berejiklian said.

"We've done better than expected in terms of contact tracing and getting on top of all those links," she said.

"But what this does is make sure that we haven't missed any chains of community transmission."

Those under the lockdown orders would only be allowed to leave home for essential reasons, including buying food or if they were unable to work from home.

An earlier ban on Sydneysiders leaving the city was also extended until next Friday as traces of the virus were detected in sewage in the far-flung outback town of Bourke, about nine hours drive northwest of&nbsp;Sydney.

Australia has been among the world's most successful countries in containing Covid-19, with just over 30,000 cases and 910 deaths.

But the virus has repeatedly escaped Australian hotels used to quarantine returning travellers, and health experts say the outbreaks will continue until large numbers of Australians are vaccinated.

Residents of four neighbourhoods of central Sydney were ordered to remain at home for a week on Friday to contain a growing outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant of Covid-19.

Residents of four neighbourhoods of central Sydney were ordered to remain at home for a week on Friday to contain a growing outbreak of the highly contagious Delta variant of Covid-19. Several dozen cases have been reported this week, linked to a limousine driver infected when he transported an international flight crew from Sydney airport to a quarantine hotel. The decision to lock down from midnight Friday came as the cluster grew to 65, with state premier Gladys Berejiklian ordering anyone who lived or worked in the affected areas over the past fortnight to stay at home. Also Read | Deaths outnumber births in Britain for the first time since 1976 Workers in the city's central business district were included in the restrictions over fears commuters were potentially spreading the virus into other parts of the city, Berejiklian said. "We've done better than expected in terms of contact tracing and getting on top of all those links," she said. "But what this does is make sure that we haven't missed any chains of community transmission." Those under the lockdown orders would only be allowed to leave home for essential reasons, including buying food or if they were unable to work from home. An earlier ban on Sydneysiders leaving the city was also extended until next Friday as traces of the virus were detected in sewage in the far-flung outback town of Bourke, about nine hours drive northwest of Sydney. Australia has been among the world's most successful countries in containing Covid-19, with just over 30,000 cases and 910 deaths. But the virus has repeatedly escaped Australian hotels used to quarantine returning travellers, and health experts say the outbreaks will continue until large numbers of Australians are vaccinated.

Lockdown ordered in central Sydney areas hit by Covid surge

New couple alert! Looks like actor-filmmaker Taika Waititi&nbsp;and actress-singer Rita Ora have made their romance public. The couple were spotted having breakfast together and strolling around in Sydney amid rumours that the duo is dating. 
 
Several reports state that during their meal on Sunday, the Oscar-winning `Jojo Rabbit` director was apparently seen packing on PDA as he got snapped tenderly holding Ora`s hand while they both laughed. 
 
The 45-year-old comedian was also photographed with his arm around Ora that same day as they took a walk through the streets carrying various food items and beverages. 
 
During the outing, the `Thor: Ragnarok` filmmaker was sporting bright print shorts and a turquoise sweatshirt and Ora donned a chic black belly-baring lace top, black skirt, black sweater and bucket hat.

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Kiwi director Taika Waititi and Rita Ora pack on the PDA as they are pictured together for the first time as a couple in Sydney 
 
Rita split from French director Romain Gavras earlier this year 
 
Waititi couldn't keep his hands off Rita and kissed the hand of his lady companion. <a href="https://t.co/aKjc26mhrO">pic.twitter.com/aKjc26mhrO</a>
— Lilian Chan (@bestgug) <a href="https://twitter.com/bestgug/status/1393924243730046977?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In March, Page Six reported that Ora was in Sydney to film the upcoming season of `The Voice.` Waititi, meanwhile, is there shooting `Thor: Love and Thunder,` which he is directing. 
 
Rumours first surfaced that Ora and Waititi were dating last month after she shared a collection of images on Instagram. One of the pictures showcased Waititi hugging her - with the caption, "Good times, memories, random things on my phone and the ones I love.. #midweekupdate." 
 
The two even then attended the `RuPaul`s Drag Race Down Under` premiere together in Sydney. While they weren`t photographed together at the event, they sat together inside. 
"They`ve been a couple since early March but kept things low key. However, all their friends know about the relationship - they`re really into each other," a source told The Sun. 
It's been reported that Waititi and his wife, Oscar-nominated producer Chelsea Winstanley, were separated two years back. They have two children. Ora has never been married.&nbsp;

New couple alert! Looks like actor-filmmaker Taika Waititi and actress-singer Rita Ora have made their romance public. The couple were spotted having breakfast together and strolling around in Sydney amid rumours that the duo is dating.

New couple alert! Looks like actor-filmmaker Taika Waititi and actress-singer Rita Ora have made their romance public. The couple were spotted having breakfast together and strolling around in Sydney amid rumours that the duo is dating. Several reports state that during their meal on Sunday, the Oscar-winning `Jojo Rabbit` director was apparently seen packing on PDA as he got snapped tenderly holding Ora`s hand while they both laughed. The 45-year-old comedian was also photographed with his arm around Ora that same day as they took a walk through the streets carrying various food items and beverages. During the outing, the `Thor: Ragnarok` filmmaker was sporting bright print shorts and a turquoise sweatshirt and Ora donned a chic black belly-baring lace top, black skirt, black sweater and bucket hat. Kiwi director Taika Waititi and Rita Ora pack on the PDA as they are pictured together for the first time as a couple in Sydney Rita split from French director Romain Gavras earlier this year Waititi couldn't keep his hands off Rita and kissed the hand of his lady companion. pic.twitter.com/aKjc26mhrO — Lilian Chan (@bestgug) May 16, 2021 × In March, Page Six reported that Ora was in Sydney to film the upcoming season of `The Voice.` Waititi, meanwhile, is there shooting `Thor: Love and Thunder,` which he is directing. Rumours first surfaced that Ora and Waititi were dating last month after she shared a collection of images on Instagram. One of the pictures showcased Waititi hugging her - with the caption, "Good times, memories, random things on my phone and the ones I love.. #midweekupdate." The two even then attended the `RuPaul`s Drag Race Down Under` premiere together in Sydney. While they weren`t photographed together at the event, they sat together inside. "They`ve been a couple since early March but kept things low key. However, all their friends know about the relationship - they`re really into each other," a source told The Sun. It's been reported that Waititi and his wife, Oscar-nominated producer Chelsea Winstanley, were separated two years back. They have two children. Ora has never been married.

Taika Waititi, Rita Ora make their romance public as they are spotted hand in hand in Sydney 

New Zealand health officials cleared the way for quarantine-free flights to resume to Sydney Sunday as fears of a COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales eased.&nbsp;

Flights were suspended on Thursday after two people in Sydney tested positive for the virus.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="New Zealand restricts tourism to protect environment in post-Covid world">New Zealand restricts tourism to protect environment in post-Covid world</a>

It was the third disruption since the quarantine-free travel bubble between New Zealand and Australia opened on April 18, almost 400 days after both closed their international borders due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The earlier stoppages to flights to and from Western Australia lasted only a few days and the current travel pause with New South Wales would end at midnight Sunday.&nbsp;

"The current assessment from New Zealand public health officials is that the risk to New Zealand from New South Wales remains low," the health ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="US urges its citizens to return home from India through available flights">US urges its citizens to return home from India through available flights</a>

"There is no evidence to suggest widespread, undetected community transmission."&nbsp;

New South Wales health officials said that despite extensive investigations they had not identified how the latest cases became infected although they believe there was "contact with a currently unidentified person who was infectious in the community."

The trans-Tasman travel bubble between the largely coronavirus-free neighbours has been hailed as a major milestone in restarting a global travel industry that has been crippled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Zealand health officials cleared the way for quarantine-free flights to resume to Sydney Sunday as fears of a COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales eased. Flights were suspended on Thursday after two people in Sydney tested positive for the virus.

New Zealand health officials cleared the way for quarantine-free flights to resume to Sydney Sunday as fears of a COVID-19 outbreak in New South Wales eased. Flights were suspended on Thursday after two people in Sydney tested positive for the virus. Also read | New Zealand restricts tourism to protect environment in post-Covid world It was the third disruption since the quarantine-free travel bubble between New Zealand and Australia opened on April 18, almost 400 days after both closed their international borders due to the pandemic. The earlier stoppages to flights to and from Western Australia lasted only a few days and the current travel pause with New South Wales would end at midnight Sunday. "The current assessment from New Zealand public health officials is that the risk to New Zealand from New South Wales remains low," the health ministry said in a statement. Also read | US urges its citizens to return home from India through available flights "There is no evidence to suggest widespread, undetected community transmission." New South Wales health officials said that despite extensive investigations they had not identified how the latest cases became infected although they believe there was "contact with a currently unidentified person who was infectious in the community." The trans-Tasman travel bubble between the largely coronavirus-free neighbours has been hailed as a major milestone in restarting a global travel industry that has been crippled by the COVID-19 pandemic.

New Zealand to resume Sydney flights as Covid scare eases

When a barge full of hay approached a semi-submerged rural property in Sydney's outer suburbs on Wednesday (March 24), the horses don't wait for it to be unloaded - they eat it straight off the boat.

Residents deliver hay to hungry horses cut off by floodwater

A man`s body was found in a car trapped by floodwaters on Wednesday, the first death linked to wild weather across Australia in recent days that has submerged houses, swept away cars and livestock and cut off entire towns.

More than 40,000 people have been forced to flee their homes as torrential rain sparked dangerous flash floods, and authorities issued new evacuation orders on Wednesday for residents in Sydney`s western regions to move to safe zones.

In some other areas, a massive clean-up operation began as sunny skies returned for the first time in days, and food and other emergency supplies were flown in over swamped roads.

The man`s body was found in Sydney`s northwest by emergency services workers responding to reports of the stranded car. Officials said the man had yet to be identified and no other details were available.

Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of New South Wales (NSW), the worst-hit state, warned that water levels would keep rising in some areas as major dams continued to overflow and rivers bulged.

"What we still have to be aware of is the fact that thousands and thousands of people are still on evacuation warnings, that the rivers will continue to swell, that catchments will continue to experience flows of water not seen in 50 years and in some places 100 years," Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney.

The Insurance Council of Australia, the peak industry body, said about 17,000 damages claims worth around A$254.2 million ($193.32 million) had been lodged by Wednesday morning across NSW and Queensland.

Homes have been submerged, livestock swept away and crops drowned on a large scale. There have also been many animal rescues, with water craft used to move dogs, cattle, and even an emu, away from the flood waters. In the country`s arid centre, water cascaded down Uluru, a rare phenomenon described by the national park on social media as "unique and extraordinary."

RECOVERY BEGINS

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday that heavy-load helicopters would be prepared to transport food to supermarkets where supplies were running short.

"The expanse of water that went right across that region was quite devastating to see," Morrison said in parliament after he toured flood-affected areas by helicopter.

Several hundred Australian Defence Force personnel will be sent to flood-affected areas in the country`s east over the next few days to help in the recovery, Australia`s Emergency Management minister David Littleproud said on Wednesday.

"Their job will be out there cleaning up, making sure that we get rid of the debris, having boots on the ground," Littleproud said.

Australian Rail Track Corp (ARTC) partially reopened Hunter Valley coal rail lines to Newcastle, the world`s biggest coal export port, on Wednesday.

The Hunter Valley rail network serves mines run by BHP Group, Glencore Plc, New Hope Corp, Whitehaven Coal and Yancoal Australia, among others.

The Port of Newcastle, which last year shipped 158 million tonnes of coal, slowed ship movements earlier in the week but said on Wednesday it was continuing to operate. 
Forecasters said the weather system will shift to the island state of Tasmania on Wednesday, bringing heavy rains and localised flooding.

A man`s body was found in a car trapped by floodwaters on Wednesday, the first death linked to wild weather across Australia in recent days that has submerged houses, swept away cars and livestock and cut off entire towns.

A man`s body was found in a car trapped by floodwaters on Wednesday, the first death linked to wild weather across Australia in recent days that has submerged houses, swept away cars and livestock and cut off entire towns. More than 40,000 people have been forced to flee their homes as torrential rain sparked dangerous flash floods, and authorities issued new evacuation orders on Wednesday for residents in Sydney`s western regions to move to safe zones. In some other areas, a massive clean-up operation began as sunny skies returned for the first time in days, and food and other emergency supplies were flown in over swamped roads. The man`s body was found in Sydney`s northwest by emergency services workers responding to reports of the stranded car. Officials said the man had yet to be identified and no other details were available. Gladys Berejiklian, the premier of New South Wales (NSW), the worst-hit state, warned that water levels would keep rising in some areas as major dams continued to overflow and rivers bulged. "What we still have to be aware of is the fact that thousands and thousands of people are still on evacuation warnings, that the rivers will continue to swell, that catchments will continue to experience flows of water not seen in 50 years and in some places 100 years," Berejiklian told reporters in Sydney. The Insurance Council of Australia, the peak industry body, said about 17,000 damages claims worth around A$254.2 million ($193.32 million) had been lodged by Wednesday morning across NSW and Queensland. Homes have been submerged, livestock swept away and crops drowned on a large scale. There have also been many animal rescues, with water craft used to move dogs, cattle, and even an emu, away from the flood waters. In the country`s arid centre, water cascaded down Uluru, a rare phenomenon described by the national park on social media as "unique and extraordinary." RECOVERY BEGINS Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday that heavy-load helicopters would be prepared to transport food to supermarkets where supplies were running short. "The expanse of water that went right across that region was quite devastating to see," Morrison said in parliament after he toured flood-affected areas by helicopter. Several hundred Australian Defence Force personnel will be sent to flood-affected areas in the country`s east over the next few days to help in the recovery, Australia`s Emergency Management minister David Littleproud said on Wednesday. "Their job will be out there cleaning up, making sure that we get rid of the debris, having boots on the ground," Littleproud said. Australian Rail Track Corp (ARTC) partially reopened Hunter Valley coal rail lines to Newcastle, the world`s biggest coal export port, on Wednesday. The Hunter Valley rail network serves mines run by BHP Group, Glencore Plc, New Hope Corp, Whitehaven Coal and Yancoal Australia, among others. The Port of Newcastle, which last year shipped 158 million tonnes of coal, slowed ship movements earlier in the week but said on Wednesday it was continuing to operate. Forecasters said the weather system will shift to the island state of Tasmania on Wednesday, bringing heavy rains and localised flooding.

Australia floods claim first fatality, more evacuations as clean-up begins

Record rains cause flash floods in Sydney

Nicole Kidman along with her husband Keith Urban reportedly got involved in a small argument, after a man swatted her at the opera in Sydney, Australia. 
 
The star couple attended a performance of The Merry Widow at the Sydney Opera House. The scene happened when the couple gave a standing ovation to the performance which annoyed the man.&nbsp; 
 
According to The Sydney Morning Herald's Private Sydney, when the couple stood up to praise the show, the man reportedly became annoyed and asked the couple to sit down.&nbsp; 
 
Keith explained that he is just giving the appreciation, and carried on clapping and standing, and at that point, things took a turn, and a man swatted Academy award-winning Kidman with his program.&nbsp; 
 
After Keith accused the man of allegedly hitting Nicole, they were reportedly escorted out of the Opera House and led security to deal with the man sitting behind them. 
 
After the incident, someone ended up calling the police and complained about the fight, “Police have been told a 53-year-old man and a 67-year-old man were both attending the entertainment centre when an argument broke out. Officers spoke to both men and no further action was taken,” NSW Police reportedly told The Sydney Morning Herald.

Nicole Kidman along with her husband Keith Urban reportedly got involved in a small argument, after a man swatted her at the opera in Sydney, Australia. The star couple attended a performance of The Merry Widow at the Sydney Opera House.

Nicole Kidman along with her husband Keith Urban reportedly got involved in a small argument, after a man swatted her at the opera in Sydney, Australia. The star couple attended a performance of The Merry Widow at the Sydney Opera House. The scene happened when the couple gave a standing ovation to the performance which annoyed the man. According to The Sydney Morning Herald's Private Sydney, when the couple stood up to praise the show, the man reportedly became annoyed and asked the couple to sit down. Keith explained that he is just giving the appreciation, and carried on clapping and standing, and at that point, things took a turn, and a man swatted Academy award-winning Kidman with his program. After Keith accused the man of allegedly hitting Nicole, they were reportedly escorted out of the Opera House and led security to deal with the man sitting behind them. After the incident, someone ended up calling the police and complained about the fight, “Police have been told a 53-year-old man and a 67-year-old man were both attending the entertainment centre when an argument broke out. Officers spoke to both men and no further action was taken,” NSW Police reportedly told The Sydney Morning Herald.

Nicole Kidman reportedly 'swatted' by a man at the opera house in Sydney

Sydney ushered in the Lunar New Year on Friday (February 12), with two new pink Ox lanterns which were unveiled at the entrance to the city's Chinatown.

Sydney rings in Lunar New Year with pink ox lanterns

Sydney welcomed the Lunar New Year of the Ox a few days early on Tuesday (February 9), kicking off two weeks of festivities and celebration throughout the city.

Sydney welcomes the Lunar New Year of the Ox

Cricket fans attending the Australian Indian test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground went to various lengths to follow a mandatory mask order on Thursday (January 7).

Cricket fans in Sydney mask up in style

The finishing touches were being put on a glitzy show at the Sydney Opera House Saturday, as the venue prepared to host an opera crowd for the first time since March.

"The Merry Widow" will open on Tuesday to masked audiences up to 75 per cent capacity, in a sign of hope for a performing arts industry crippled by the pandemic, artistic director Lyndon Terracini told AFP.

"Walking back into the theatre was a very emotional time for everyone involved," he said.

"I think throughout this year, other opera houses will be opening very soon and people will be coming back to the theatre with a sense of hope."

Thanks to Australia's success in suppressing the virus, crowds inside venues -- including the Sydney Opera House -- have been permitted in the country's most populous city for months.

But even as the performers readied for their opening night, an outbreak in the city forced officials to tighten restrictions — including a new mandate on mask-wearing on public transport and in many indoor settings from midnight Saturday.

The outbreak of over 180 cases first emerged in December in Sydney's northeast but has since sparked other clusters, including in Melbourne.

Areas of Sydney remain under lockdown and officials have suggested further restrictions may be needed to curb the spread -- which could include a change to audiences at indoor performances.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wool-industry-witnesses-shift-in-attitudes-in-australia-353978">WATCH|</a>

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Julie Lea Goodwin, who leads the show along with Alexander Lewis, said she was thrilled to be back performing but after a nine-month hiatus the uncertainty of the pandemic still loomed.

"I have no idea what's ahead," Goodwin said.

"I think that Australia is doing an unbelievable job... but it's just going to be a process for the next year, I'd say, or longer."

Australia has recorded over 28,400 cases of the virus and 909 deaths linked to Covid-19 in a population of about 25 million.

The finishing touches were being put on a glitzy show at the Sydney Opera House Saturday, as the venue prepared to host an opera crowd for the first time since March.

The finishing touches were being put on a glitzy show at the Sydney Opera House Saturday, as the venue prepared to host an opera crowd for the first time since March. "The Merry Widow" will open on Tuesday to masked audiences up to 75 per cent capacity, in a sign of hope for a performing arts industry crippled by the pandemic, artistic director Lyndon Terracini told AFP. "Walking back into the theatre was a very emotional time for everyone involved," he said. "I think throughout this year, other opera houses will be opening very soon and people will be coming back to the theatre with a sense of hope." Thanks to Australia's success in suppressing the virus, crowds inside venues -- including the Sydney Opera House -- have been permitted in the country's most populous city for months. But even as the performers readied for their opening night, an outbreak in the city forced officials to tighten restrictions — including a new mandate on mask-wearing on public transport and in many indoor settings from midnight Saturday. The outbreak of over 180 cases first emerged in December in Sydney's northeast but has since sparked other clusters, including in Melbourne. Areas of Sydney remain under lockdown and officials have suggested further restrictions may be needed to curb the spread -- which could include a change to audiences at indoor performances. WATCH| × Julie Lea Goodwin, who leads the show along with Alexander Lewis, said she was thrilled to be back performing but after a nine-month hiatus the uncertainty of the pandemic still loomed. "I have no idea what's ahead," Goodwin said. "I think that Australia is doing an unbelievable job... but it's just going to be a process for the next year, I'd say, or longer." Australia has recorded over 28,400 cases of the virus and 909 deaths linked to Covid-19 in a population of about 25 million.

Sydney's Opera House to reopen on Sunday after combating COVID-19 fears

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