Treasurer Josh Frydenberg tested for coronavirus after coughing fit in parliament

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has been tested for coronavirus after having a coughing fit in parliament on Tuesday.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has a coughing fit as he makes a ministerial statement to the House of Representatives at Parliament House in Canberra, Tuesday, May 12, 2020. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas) NO ARCHIVING

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has a coughing fit. Source: AAP

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has been tested for COVID-19 and is in self-isolation after having a coughing fit in parliament.

In a socially distanced parliament on Tuesday, Mr Frydenberg struggled to suppress a coughing fit as he discussed data revealing the economic effects of the coronavirus.

"Today while delivering my ministerial statement I had a dry mouth and cough," Mr Frydenberg said in a statement issued a few hours after the incident.

"The Deputy Chief Medical Officer advised me that out of an abundance of caution it was prudent I be tested for COVID-19."

Mr Frydenberg said he would await the test results, expected tomorrow, in isolation.
While delivering the economic update which revealed coronavirus would wipe the equivalent of $50 billion from the economy, Mr Frydenberg was forced to stop for about three minutes as he coughed and lost his voice. 

He coughed into his hand several times before touching his face and the despatch box, going against medical advice to cough and sneeze into your elbow to limit the spread of germs. 



After delivering his address, Mr Frydenberg remained in the House of Representatives chamber for Question Time.

Several federal politicians have already returned positive COVID-19 tests, including Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton and Centre Alliance Senator Rex Patrick.


People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits. Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia.

If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.

SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus.


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