Omicron threatens Australia's plans to further reopen

Australia's plans for a wider reopening this week have been thrown into doubt, amid concerns over the new Omicron coronavirus variant.

The country detected its first cases of Omicron in several states, among some who travelled from southern Africa over the weekend.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the country's national security committee will meet Monday.

"We'll get the best information, we'll work together, we'll make sensible, practical, balanced decisions and my key message to people is just to remain calm. Do what you're doing. Follow all the same usual procedures. Get your booster shot. Get your second vaccine. Let's get that vaccination rate up over 90%. We're on track for that."

Australia shut its borders for more than eighteen months until the start of November.

It's largest cities Sydney and Melbourne have since tightened their travel rules again, with all international travellers required to quarantine for three days.

Australia was poised to allow skilled migrants and students into the country on Wednesday.