The decision to extend pandemic leave payments is a common sense step forward, Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said.

“While government mandated isolation rules are in place, it makes sense to keep carefully targeted support that ensures those who are infectious can do the right thing and stay home.

“It’s no surprise that living alongside the virus means more cases, what matters is how well we protect the vulnerable and keep the health system functioning by slowing the spread.

“That means removing the disincentives that stop people taking appropriate action when unwell, driving up transmission and case numbers.

“As we’ve said throughout the pandemic, a nationally consistent risk-based plan is the only way to let Australians live alongside the virus.

“We welcome National Cabinet’s commitment to regular meetings with a focus on the latest medical advice and a nationally consistent approach to ongoing management.

“With one of the world’s highest vaccination rates, we can’t retreat to Delta settings which will stifle our recovery and hamstring businesses.

“The emergency phase of this pandemic is over, so we’ve got to shift gear and manage the virus for the long term.

“We’ve been here before, so we know that clear, consistent and risk-based action is the best way to maintain our economic momentum and keep people safe.”