Australia Covid update: nation records 47 deaths as WA warns restrictions could tighten

Morrison government tries to shift anti-mandate protest anger towards states as Canberra rally ordered to leave

• The Bega byelection loss is a clear warning to a vulnerable NSW government
• Follow our Covid live blog for the latest updates
• Get our free news app; get our morning email briefing

The New South Wales premier, Dominic Pettottet, has defended his government's decision-making during the pandemic, as the federal government tries to shift this weekend's protest anger in the nation's capital towards the states.

It comes as Australia-wide at least 47 deaths were reported and the Western Australia government warned restrictions were likely to be introduced as cases in that state rose.