The known: Lessons learnt from previous epidemics and pandemics emphasise the frontline role of primary care and the need for strong, consistent communication with the primary care workforce and the wider community

The new: Australia's primary care response to COVID‐19 has seen rapid implementation of initiatives to protect the nation's most vulnerable citizens, preserve existing health system function, support and treat people with COVID‐19, and optimise workforce capacity

The implications: Australia's investment in the primary care response to COVID‐19 is enabling effective frontline care while mitigating spread, and protecting the ongoing health of the nation's most vulnerable people