The south-west is a shining light in the race to vax the nation with new data revealing 51.6 per cent of the region's population has received a first COVID-19 vaccination. That is second only to Bendigo in the state.

The data also revealed 23 per cent of people aged over 15 had had their second jab, putting us fourth in the state.

Well done, we should be proud.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and state and territory leaders via national cabinet have agreed that vaccination is the key to ending lockdowns and people who have been vaccinated will be able to avoid lockdown restrictions once 70 per cent of the eligible population have had two doses.

"If you're vaccinated, you present less of a public health risk," Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

"You are less likely to get the virus. You are less likely to transmit it."

Locals have been frustrated with the lack of vaccinations but that is a promising sign many in our community are keen to protect themselves and their families.

If you are unsure about which vaccine to get, talk with your doctor.

Victoria's latest snap lockdown, announced with just four hours notice, is designed to stop the spread of the Delta variant and avoid longer shutdowns.

We know, and accept, lockdowns stop the spread and equally we know how devastating they can be on our mental health and economic wellbeing of our communities.

But the way out is to get as many of us vaccinated as quickly as we can.

We need more supplies of precious vaccines.

And campaign messaging and facts that provide assurances, not confusion or uncertainty.

Here at The Standard we are determined to keep you informed about legitimate questions and concerns about the vax roll-out but we have no hesitancy when it comes to saying "Australia, let's Vax The Nation".