Tasmania has joined the ranks of other Australian states that have decided to scrap virtually all vaccination requirements amid the spread of the milder Omicront variant of the CCP virus. From Feb. 25, proof of vaccination will no longer be required to visit the state and will be removed for venues such as bars, restaurants, theatres, and gyms. However, vaccination remains mandatory for workers in high-risk settings such as health and aged care. This means that currently, the only jurisdictions in Australia that maintain widespread vaccination mandates—such as for hospitality, entertainment, and fitness venues—are left-leaning, Labor party-led states. Schools will also be kept open to facilitate vital face-to-face learning for children and teens. Tasmania Premier Peter Gutwein explained that the low hospitalisation rate of Omicron meant enforcing proof of vaccination requirements did more harm than good. “The omicron virus is far milder, and hospitalisations remain steady and far lower than …