There is no excuse for the terrible behaviour we have seen in our city over the last two days.

Acts of violence and disruption won’t result in one less case of Covid – in fact it only helps the virus to spread.

Thank you to the brave men and women of Victoria Police for their work today – and every day – to keep our community safe.

We know vaccinations are our only ticket out of this pandemic. There is no other way.

For those who think violence is the answer, I ask that you think of your fellow Victorians – doing the right thing over many months, following the advice of our health experts.

We have come too far to turn back now.

Please spare a thought for our healthcare workers who are working such long hours looking after patients, many who are struggling to breathe.

The more of us who get vaccinated, the fewer of us who will end up in hospital.

It’s as simple as that.