• Pharma giant Pfizer says its COVID vaccine is safe and highly effective for kids aged 5-11yo. It plans on making applications for regulatory approval for use in the US by the end of the month. So far, there’s no word on when an application will be made to Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration, but it’ll be welcome news for many parents.

• Speaking of progress, the US is easing travel restrictions to re-open to passengers from the UK, EU and other nations – if they are fully vaccinated. The surprise announcement sent northern hemisphere airlines’ share prices soaring… Aussies with a travel exemption have been able to enter the US with a negative test.

• Construction in metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas has been shut down for a fortnight by the Andrews Government after “widespread non-compliance” with COVID safety rules. Recent violent protests, including yesterday at the construction union’s head office, prompted the shutdown, and more protests are expected today.