Six-hour queues for PCR tests in 30C heat, Western Australia shut off behind a hard border and rapid antigen tests at $60 a packet – Christmas 2021 was a confusing and difficult time for many as large parts of the country eased border restrictions and ended lockdowns in time for the holidays, even as case numbers surged.
In a repeat of the lead-up to Christmas last year, Australia is approaching the new year amid a Covid surge, this time with a mix of Omicron variants responsible for infections.
