[A thread] When nations face disasters or other existential threats, such as bushfires, terrorist attacks or war, generally politics is put aside and the population strives together to overcome the event. #auspol 1/9

There are many examples - NZ's Christchurch earthquake and mosque shooting, the twin-towers terrorist attack in New York and London in the blitz. In Australia's case bushfires are the most common example. #auspol 2/9

During our bushfire seasons, there are no individuals more reviled than arsonists. They act against the common good and in many cases their actions kill people, destroy property and disrupt lives and livelihoods. There are severe penalties in place for such people. #auspol 3/9

Pandemics are rare, so the current #covid19 situation is (so far) unique in our lifetimes, but as it rolls on we have seen a similar pattern to other calamities such as terrorist events, and bushfires - the vast majority working together to combat it. #auspol 4/9

But we have also seen a number of politicians and their media surrogates actively undermine public health messaging - they have downplayed the seriousness of #covid19 (it's only the flu), or "it's a massive beat up", or its all a power trip for the Premiers etc #auspol 5/9

This irresponsible commentary undermines the efforts of our healthcare professionals and the public, in EXACTLY the same was that arsonists undermine the efforts of our fire services in the bushfire season. We don't tolerate arsonists, why do we tolerate pro-plaguers? #auspol 6/9

Much of VIC's resurgence is due to complacency that has been encouraged by these commentators. When a member of the public believes what they hear, that "it's just a beat-up" (or similar), they will often ignore social distancing, hand cleaning or quarantine orders. #auspol 7/9

The time has come for our Federal & State governments to legislate in a similar way to prohibit such messaging that undermines public health during a pandemic. We have legislated against arsonists and terrorists - why not these people. They also kill indiscriminately. #auspol 8/9

And before the squeals of "Free speech" start, consider this - It is already illegal to promote terrorism or to compel someone to self-harm or light fires. Pro-plaguers are every bit as dangerous as terrorists and arsonists and should be treated accordingly. #auspol 9/9