Coronavirus vaccine certificates to be rolled out on smartphones

Australians will carry 'proof of vaccination' certificates with them on their smartphone or as hard copies under plans being finalised by the federal government ahead of the scheduled rollout of the coronavirus vaccine.

The rollout of the certificates program has gone to the federal cabinet, where it has been discussed at length with approval expected within weeks.

The 'proof of vaccination' certificates would be accessed via the Express Plus Medicare app and the MyGov app.

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Under the plan, people's immunisation history statements will display proof of their COVID-19 immunisation status.

Hard copies of the certificates will also be able to be printed at vaccine providers or at Services Australia sites.

The rollout of the certificates program has gone to the federal cabinet, where it has been discussed at length with approval expected within weeks.

The move is expected to allow Australians more freedom of movement, particularly around visiting hospitals and aged care homes, where high-risk patients reside.

It's also expected to play a key role as Australia looks to reopen its international borders in the months to come.

It comes as UK scientists launch the world's first study examining whether different coronavirus vaccines can safely be used for two-dose regimens - an approach they say could give extra flexibility and even boost protection against COVID-19 if approved.

Participants in the 13-month study will be given the Oxford/AstraZeneca and Oxford/AstraZeneca in different combinations and at different intervals.