The Australia’s Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt says Australia’s borders will remain closed for “a significant amount of time”, in order to maintain its status as an “island sanctuary” from the coronavirus.

Mr Hunt was responding to a question on ABC Radio National this morning about whether Australia would remain closed off from the world for the World Health Organisation’s new estimated vaccine development time of two-and-a-half years.

Health Minister Greg HuntCREDIT:ALEX ELLINGHAUSEN

“I do think that the international border closures will remain in place for a very significant time,” he said. By Rachael Dexter

Melbourne primary school closed over positive COVID-19 case

A primary school in one of the worst affected hotspots in Melbourne has closed today after a student tested positive for COVID-19.

According to a letter from the school, seen by The Age, Keilor Views Primary School will be closed from today for at least three days.

“This closure will allow time for the school and DHHS (Department of Health and Human Services) to undertake a full risk assessment and allow appropriate cleaning of the school site,” the letter reads.

“Close contacts of the student will be notified by DHHS and supported to ensure they understand what actions to take,” – By Rachael Dexter

Brunswick East Primary School also closed over coronavirus case

A second primary school in one of Melbourne’s hotspot council areas has closed today after a student tested positive for COVID-19.

Brunswick East Primary, in Moreland local government area, has closed on Tuesday a DHHS spokeswoman confirmed.

“Further investigations will be undertaken by DHHS, the schools and DET to identify whether any staff or students are required to self-isolate, and to determine any further actions required to reduce the risk of infection,” she said.

It’s the second school to close on Tuesday, after Keilor Views Primary School, in the Brimbank local government area in Melbourne’s west, also had a student test positive. (see 8.45pm post) – By Rachael Dexter

@ SMH