Australia has weathered the coronavirus pandemic better than many other countries, recording just over 7000 cases and 100 deaths so far.

But various errors, such as the Ruby Princess debacle, show we can — and must — do better.

The crisis has reignited a long-running debate about the need for an Australian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (AusCDC).

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese advocated for one last week, as did AMA President Dr Tony Bartone.