A high-level political meeting called as COVID spreads Article by: AAP | Last Updated: 28-06-2021 Photo: High-level meeting called as COVID spreads Australia is facing some of its most widespread COVID-19 restrictions since the outbreak of the pandemic, prompting a high-level political response. An emergency meeting of Australia's national security committee will consider the increasing number of COVID-19 lockdowns as the nation faces some of its most widespread restrictions since the pandemic began. Monday could also see an unscheduled meeting of national cabinet. "The national security committee of cabinet is meeting in the morning with a specific COVID agenda, particularly to consider the outbreaks," the prime minister's office confirmed late on Sunday.