Australians living in the states of New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria will continue to be subject to harsh and prolonged COVID-19 lockdown and restriction measures, with the leaders of both states refusing to ease up until more residents are vaccinated. Victorian Premier Dan Andrews announced on Sept. 1 that his state would extend its lockdown until 70 percent of its residents had received their first dose of vaccine, expected to be achieved by Sept. 23. In the meantime, residents cannot leave their homes unless it is for five permitted reasons: shopping for food and supplies, authorised work (with a permit) and study, care and caregiving, exercise, and getting vaccinated. Providing some relief, from 11.59 p.m. on Sept. 2, Victorian authorities will re-open playgrounds with strict rules and QR codes in place. Only children under 12 may play on public playgrounds, and only one parent or guardian may accompany them. …