An inquiry into the federal government’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic is expected to be announced today, Thursday 21.
First reported by Nine newspapers, the inquiry is set to be formed of three members – an economist, an epidemiologist, and a public administration expert.
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The inquiry will be announced in Adelaide by Mr Albanese and Health Minister Mark Butler.
Financial Review reported one source said the inquiry would aim to release an interim report before the end of the year.
However, the date has raised fears the report would not be thorough.
The Coalition has criticised the form of inquiry chosen by Anthony Albanese’s government, saying a royal commission with tougher investigative powers should be conducted.
Nationals Senate leader Bridget McKenzie called the decision “another broken promise”.
Speaking to Sky News, Ms McKenzie claimed a royal commission wasn’t chosen as it would have to investigate “the different jurisdictions’ reactions” to the pandemic.
“They ran a select committee throughout the senate … out of that inquiry they decided they would have a royal commission,” Ms McKenzie told Sky News.
“That means seriously examining the actions of Premier Daniel Andrews … where we were locked in our houses – where we’re still dealing with the mental health outcomes, particularly for our young people.
“And the behaviour of Annastacia Palaszczuk when she slammed shut that border between New South Wales and Queensland.”