WA premier lashes Clive Palmer over coronavirus border lawsuit
Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan has lashed mining tycoon Clive Palmer over his court battle to open up the state's borders and says he wants a fresh trial.
The Commonwealth Government has withdrawn its support for Mr Palmer, but the action is ongoing.
"He is pursuing a case against our interests, against the country's interests, simply because he can," Mr McGowan said.
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Clive Palmer and Mark McGowan. Alex Ellinghausen/Trevor Collins
"It really is abominable what he's doing. An act of decency would be to pull out.
"We believe a fresh trial is the only way forward, and I hope we're successful in court.
"With or without the support of the Commonwealth Government, WA will keep fighting for what is our right and that is to protect citizens of our state.
"We will continue our battle, our war with Clive Palmer.
READ MORE: FIFO worker clashes with police at Perth Airport over border declaration
"It's a war we intend to win. We won't be rushed into anything that is against health advice."
Mr McGowan announced today WA will delay removing more coronavirus rules amid Victoria's ongoing crisis.
The two-square-metre rule and half venue capacity will be the last measures to be removed, other than the state's strict border controls.
Called phase five, they were due to be lifted in the next few weeks.
"On the advice of the chief health officer phase five will be delayed for two more weeks… until at least August 29," Mr McGowan said.
The premier said he knew it would "cause some frustration", especially for businesses.
"We need to be extra cautious," Mr McGowan said.
Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan has lashed mining tycoon Clive Palmer over his court battle to open up the state's borders and says he wants a fresh trial Getty
There are no new cases in the state and have been no community cases since April 11.
The state's Disaster Council met today, along with the National Cabinet.
Mr McGowan said WA is finalising new details on truck driver testing.
All truck drivers will have to show evidence of a negative test within the past seven days.
If they have not been tested, they will be told on arrival to get tested within the next 48 hours.
He said WA is sending medical staff to Victoria to help with the coronavirus response.
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