Anyone who’s worked in an office undergoing change will be familiar with the “brave new world” phrase.
It’s used to motivate staff to think differently and to embrace an alternative way of working.
From December 17, Queensland enters a brave new world – a world in which we have no choice than to embrace a new way of living.
We manage this by mandating that people who are immersing themselves into social environments are vaccinated.
The state government and its health advisors should be commended for their courage to enforce a vaccine mandate.
It means those of us who have bothered to follow the rules, and to worry about the implications not only to ourselves, but those around us – including our families, friends, peers and colleagues – can feel safe that our diligence won’t be upset by those unwilling to comply.
It would seem from today’s front page story that businesses who will be most impacted are not bothered by the mandate.
Rather, they see it as a way forward – to create a safe workplace, and a safe place for people to visit.
Those who’ve chosen to be vaccinated will be watching movies, attending nightclubs and functions, and working in their place of choice.
The mandate ensures that those who have chosen to comply with common sense will be rubbing shoulders with others who have chosen a similar path.
That’s because it is indeed a choice. Those who fear the multiple versions of a Covid vaccine are welcome to refrain from taking it. It would be unfair for us to judge their choices, or to treat their decision with disrespect.
But to risk their presence in a society braving a new world with Covid’s existence nearby would be to risk the health of a majority. It would be to risk overwhelming a health system we often take for granted. And it would be to risk taking highly qualified professionals, such as police and emergency services workers, away from the frontline due to illness.
Our brave new world is frightening. But credit to the health officials who are making some tough decisions.
