‘People feel abandoned’: as masks come off, thousands of Australians feel scared to go out

As anti-Covid restrictions ease, many immunocompromised people feel theatres and concerts are now too risky. Are mask-only performances the answer?

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As of this week, Queenslanders no longer have to prove they are double vaccinated to gain entry to entertainment and cultural venues, which are back at 100% capacity a month after mask requirements eased. And in South Australia, mask restrictions are lifting on Friday.

But more than an estimated 700,000 Australians are, at any given time, considered immunocompromised - through genetic causes, as organ recipients, undergoing treatments for cancer and some infections and simply age. Many in these groups are choosing to remain in self-imposed lockdown as Covid-19 precautions in public settings ease.