Mark Butler (Hindmarsh, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House of Representatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I wish to make a personal explanation.

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Does the member claim to have been misrepresented?

Mark Butler (Hindmarsh, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House of Representatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I do.

Tony Smith (Speaker) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Then you may proceed.

Mark Butler (Hindmarsh, Australian Labor Party, Deputy Manager of Opposition Business in the House of Representatives) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This afternoon in question time I questioned the use of the term 'vaccinated' by the Prime Minister to describe Australians who have only received one dose of a two-dose COVID vaccine. Being asked to respond on the Prime Minister's behalf, the minister alleged that my question was—and I quote the minister—'a suggestion that someone who has only received the first dose is not afforded any protection from the vaccine' and that that would be 'misleading'. I made no such suggestion and I've never made such a suggestion. What I was reflecting was the well-understood position about both vaccines; that is, that they are two-dose vaccines—a position reflected on the government's own health website at health.gov.au, which says in relation to Pfizer, and I quote:

After your first dose, you will need a second dose … at least 21 days later to complete the vaccination schedule. It is important that you receive two doses of the same vaccine. You may not be protected against COVID-19 until seven days after your second dose.

The government's website goes on to say on AstraZeneca:

Two doses of the Astra/Zeneca vaccine are required.