As of Sunday, October 10, Orange's vaccination number for first doses is in excess of 95 percent, while second doses is just shy of 80 per cent.
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According to federal government vaccine data which was released yesterday, more than 95 per cent of those aged 15 and over in Orange had received their first dose of a COVID vaccine, and 79.4 per cent were fully vaccinated.
Orange mayor Reg Kidd congratulated residents on a job well done, adding that the LGA will "undoubtedly" reach the 80 per cent fully-vaxxed milestone before next weekend.
"Great work Orange. We were at 70 per cent well before most, and except for a few LGAs in Sydney (mostly North Shore) and Gilgandra, we lead the pack," Cr Kidd said.
"This is a real positive for Orange, as being vaccinated does give better protection (especially against severe reactions and hospitalisation).
"Keep safe, obey the health regulations, remember [social] distancing, [to wear] masks where required and testing."
As per the NSW government's roadmap out of lockdown and restrictions, once the state average hits 80 per cent double-dosed, there will be more freedoms for vaccinated people.
90.4 per cent of the population aged over 16 years has now received a first dose of the vaccine while 74 per cent are double-dosed.
Yesterday, the state began the process of re-opening, with its first stage of eased restrictions.
Today, Premier Dominic Perrottet and Treasurer Matt Kean announced a package to support business.
Eligible businesses with an annual turnover between $75,000 and $50 million will be able to apply for a grant of up to $20,000 to compensate for loss of perishable stock, or claim $10,000 for reduced capacity to sell non-perishable items if they are impacted by a lockdown.
"As we head into the summer months and Christmas trade ... businesses can go out and invest in their businesses, buy stock to get going and we know there has been concern in relation to lockdown," the premier said.
He insisted any future lockdown would be "a last resort, not a first resort" .
- with Australian Associated Press
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