New COVID-19 rules sideline unvaccinated 12 to 15-year-olds from concerts

The chair of a group representing 250 dance and performing arts studios says a lack of forewarning has left children aged 12 to 15  sidelined from concerts they’ve been working hard towards.

Under the COVID-19 rules which were announced yesterday and came into effect at midnight, Victorians aged 12 or older must be fully vaccinated to visit a range of venues including hospitality businesses, non-essential retailers, theatres, and also dance classes.

Chair of the Dance Arts Alliance, Mike Harrison-Lamond, says he’s been seeking answers for weeks from the state government on what would happen when the 90 per cent double dose vaccination threshold was reached.

“We’ve been asking the government for ages about whether it was going to be 12+ or 16+ and they wouldn’t get back to us, and they’ve broadcasted that yesterday,” he told Neil Mitchell.

Mr Harrison-Lamond says there are kids who’ve got concerts tonight who now can’t perform.

“I understand a lot of parents have been waiting, just for a bit more data,” he said.

“They’ve been through so much … these kids have been damaged emotionally and mentally.

“We have to now tell them ‘I’m sorry, you can’t go on stage’.”

Press PLAY below to hear Mr Harrison telling Neil Mitchell about the situation