Australia’s health watchdog, the TGA, has reversed its order banning free alcohol as an incentive for people to get the COVID-19 vaccine, paving the way for beer-inspired shots in the arm.
In early July, the Prince Alfred Hotel announced a promotion offering a free drink to locals who get the jab at the pop-up vaccination centre across from the pub.
But the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) was not impressed, telling proprietors Anna and Tom Streater the promotion had to be stopped, on the basis that their regulations stipulate that vaccine incentive offers must not offer alcohol, tobacco, or registered medicines.
Countries around the world have begun concerted programs to encourage people to get the vaccine. Lotteries giving away millions in cash are taking place in some US states, and last week French President Emmanuel Marcon declared anyone wanting to go to a pub, cafe or restaurant must provide proof they had been vaccinated or had recently tested negative for coronavirus.
The incentives have seen millions of uncertain or slow-acting people book themselves for a vaccine, including more than 1.7 million French citizens in the 24 hours following Macron’s announcement.
Scott Morrison subsequently weighed in on the Prince Alfred debate, joking that the ban was “a bit heavy-handed” and that he would ask Health Minister Greg Hunt to “get it sorted”.
Under pressure to be part of the team, last week the TGA reversed its policy, allowing offers of free alcohol as vaccination incentive – just as Victoria sank into its fifth lockdown, on Friday.
The TGA only stipulates that offers of free alcohol “must not encourage excessive or rapid consumption”.
The Prince Alfred Hotel has avowed to continue the promotion – once Victoria’s latest lockdown ends – in the hope it will encourage more people to get vaccinated, and prevent further lockdowns.
The Streaters say they are fortunate to be in a position where they can continue to pay staff, and are grateful to the rent relief provided by their landlord.
Benefitting from the change in policy, the Windsor Hotel in South Perth announced their plan to give away a free drink to anyone (over 18) who can prove they had their vaccine that day.
Between midday and 6pm every day, freshly vaccinated punters have a choice of a pint of Ogden’s Brewery beer or a juice box, on the house.
