The ACT Labor government has blamed NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian after the territory extended its lockdown for another four weeks, all but gave up on its elimination strategy, and granted only a minuscule relaxation of the severe restrictions that have shut down the national capital for the past five weeks.

In an announcement derided by the ACT Liberals as a betrayal and a “crushing blow” for families, Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the lockdown, which was originally signalled as a one week, short-sharp move, would be extended beyond this Friday until October 15.