Australian Government Pays Over $13 Million in COVID-19 Vaccine Injury Claims
The Australian government has compensated individuals who suffered harm from the COVID-19 vaccine, with payouts amounting to $20.5 million (US$13.2 million). This information was provided by Services Australia to The Epoch Times, which revealed that 6.82 percent of claims have been compensated so far, equating to 286 out of 4,191 claims.
Details of the Vaccine Claims
The COVID-19 Vaccine Claims Scheme in Australia has received 4,191 claims as of 31 March 2024, with 286 claims paid out, totaling around $20.5 million. The scheme is expected to receive new claims until its end date on 30 September 2024. The updated figures follow a submission to the government’s COVID-19 Inquiry, which disclosed that $16.9 million worth of claims had been paid up until the end of November 2023.
Understanding the Vaccine Claims Scheme
The Australian COVID-19 vaccine claims scheme allows individuals to claim losses above $1,000 for moderate to severe adverse reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. This includes vaccines approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), such as AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax. The scheme is administered by Services Australia on behalf of the Department of Health and Aged Care (DHAC), which updated the policy in April to include more claimable conditions based on TGA advice.
Eligibility for Compensation
To be eligible for compensation, individuals must meet the definition of harm, be admitted to hospital as an inpatient, or have a waiver if seen in outpatient care. Those who suffered harm must have experienced losses or expenses of more than $1,000 due to the vaccine. The conditions included range from anaphylactic reaction to erythema multiforme (major), myocarditis, pericarditis, and thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome. Also included are shoulder injuries from the vaccine, or other moderate to significant physical injuries that caused permanent impairment or need an extended period of medical treatment.
Lockdowns and Demand for Government Services
Services Australia reported a surge in demand for government services during the lockdowns. In 55 days in 2020, the agency processed 1.3 million JobSeeker claims, a volume typically seen over two and a half years. Demand for COVID-related claims also surged during Victoria’s lockdown in 2021.
Mental Health Concerns
The Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi) has expressed concerns about the lack of focus on mental health support during the pandemic. The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) also raised concerns about alcohol companies and retailers exploiting the situation.
Conclusion
The payout of over $13 million in COVID-19 vaccine injury claims by the Australian government highlights the potential risks associated with vaccination. However, it's important to note that these claims represent a small percentage of the total vaccinated population. What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which happens every day at 6pm.
