AUSTRALIA: THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK

Australians woke up to news this morning that coronavirus outbreak has officially been declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation. It comes as the cases of the COVID-19 virus exceed 118,000 worldwide, with more than 4,200 deaths. In Australia there are more than 100 confirmed cases of the virus, and there have been three deaths. The country joins a worldwide shift to ramp up preventative measures, with the Federal government launching a stimulus package valued at $17.6 billion dollars. Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the plan will prevent the economy entering a recession, with apprentices, businesses and pensioners the central focus. The Australian government has extended its coronavirus travel ban to Italy, strengthening its response to the coronavirus outbreak. The Prime Minister launched a $2.4 billion response to the health risks posed by the virus, with new clinics and telehealth services to be set up...

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg and Prime Minister Scott Morrison announce the stimulus package Source: AAP