Coronavirus: ‘Guinea pig states’ being considered in Australia

Some Aussie states could have their coronavirus restrictions lifted early in a possible plan for “guinea pig states”.

Australia could create “guinea pig states” to track the implications of lifting coronavirus restrictions and inform a wider exit strategy for the country.

According to The Courier Mail, Western Australia and South Australia have been identified as possible areas where restrictions could be lifted early as they are the mainland states with the lowest number of cases.

Some businesses may be able to reopen and social restrictions eased before the expected six-month time frame.

The impact of the easing of restrictions would be analysed and this could guide plans for the rest of the country.

The plan for these “guinea pig states” is understood to be among several options that will be presented to state premiers.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday flagged the possibility of states lifting restrictions at different times.

“You will have some jurisdictions, some states and territories that might be in a position to move when others are not, then we will learn from the experience of those states that may have trialled things,’’ Mr Morrison said.

RELATED: Follow the latest updates on coronavirus

RELATED: Focal outbreak worrying authorities the most

RELATED: Disturbing decision authorities face on ending the epidemic

Places like Adelaide in South Australia have low rates of coronavirus infection. Picture: Tracey Nearmy/Getty Images

“And we may see a number of trial-type of relief of restrictions at some point in the ­future and that would mean that in states like New South Wales or Victoria or even southeast Queensland that are more impacted that they be able to take this easing of restrictions with a bit more confidence.

“So the National Cabinet is working together very much on this and discussing the options that are available to them and really trying to help each other with the decisions that they need to make in each and every case.”

The Morrison Government revealed some early modelling on Tuesday it has relied on for decision-making but this was based on overseas data. Further modelling based on Australian cases is expected to be done in the next few weeks, and this will help decide the next steps.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Wednesday that Australia was in the suppression phase but looking at the “road out” on restrictions.

“It is likely to be in steps and stages,” he said.

While some are calling for the end to lockdowns, authorities have warned against complacency, especially over the Easter period, with Mr Morrison saying community transmission remained a significant concern.