Coronavirus cases surge

Australia's Victoria records huge case jump

The second-most populous state confirmed 13 new deaths and 723 new cases on Thursday - a 36% jump on the previous daily record set on Monday.

The spike meant Australia overalls had its deadliest day in the pandemic.

Officials renewed appeals for people with symptoms to get tested quickly.

Last week, the Victorian government said sick people breaking isolation rules - or not getting tested in time - was leading to continued spread despite lockdown measures.

"If you've got symptoms, the only thing you can do is get tested," said Premier Daniel Andrews.