Bass candidate and GP Julie Sladden has been outspoken over Covid vaccines

Premier Jeremy Rockliff has been forced to defend a Bass Liberal candidate who has been outspoken against Covid vaccines.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff. Liberal Party campaign launch in Launceston for the 2024 state election. Picture: Rob Burnett

The Premier has brushed off concerns from the medical community about a Liberal candidate who has been publicly outspoken in her opposition to Covid vaccines and mandates.

The Australian Medical Association has condemned the Liberals’ decision to endorse Bass Liberal candidate and GP Julie Sladden, who has strong anti-vaccination views and was forced to stop work after choosing not to be vaccinated.

In a statement issued on Thursday AMA Tasmania vice President Annette Barratt said the community looked to their leaders for accurate information supported by qualified experts.

“The Gutwein/Rockliff Government was rightly commended for how they handled the Covid-19 crisis, which included mandating Covid vaccinations for many staff working with vulnerable people in hospitals, general practices, schools, aged care facilities and disability homes,” Dr Barratt said.

“It is untenable for any government trying to urge Tasmanians to follow the best clinical advice and vaccinate to have one of its own undermining that message.”

AMA Tasmanian Vice President Dr Annette Barratt at New Town. Picture Chris Kidd

Dr Barratt said overwhelming evidence supported vaccine safety and effectiveness in preventing loss of life.

“Doctors, government and political leaders are collectively responsible for protecting communities by promoting vaccination and combating misinformation,” she said.

During a press conference in Hobart on Thursday, Premier Jeremy Rockliff rejected Dr Sladden’s endorsement undermined the government’s Covid response.

“I don’t believe at all in that point of view,” Mr Rockliff said.

“I will always listen to the AMA I have been working with the AMA very thoroughly since I was shadow minister back in 2010 and Health Minister of course.

“We worked well together and the AMA will be very interested I’m sure in speaking to all our candidates including Julie with respect to expansion of primary healthcare and meeting the needs of people in regional areas.”

Franklin Labor MP Dean Winter said Dr Sladden should be disendorsed.

“This has now become a critical question of principle and trust for Mr Rockliff and what he actually stands for,” Mr Winter said.