The federal Health Minister has played down concerns surrounding a new COVID-19 variant.

The Prime Minister is convening a National Security Committee meeting today to discuss Australia’s measures to combat the spread of the Omicron variant as we learn more about the strain.

Australia has already suspended flights from nine countries in southern Africa and temporarily banned non-citizens who have been in those countries from entering.

Returning citizens are allowed to return, but must undertake a 14-day quarantine period.

Despite this, Greg Hunt says there’s no cause for panic, as Australia is one of the most highly vaccinated nations in the world.

At this stage, there is no signs the variant will breach the integrity of Australia’s vaccine rollout, he said.

“We will not hesitate to take additional steps if the medical evidence indicates more is required.

“We are well-prepared and we are in, I think, the best scientific hands in the world.”

Press PLAY below to watch the Health Minister’s press conference in full 

Image: Nine News