Tennis Australia said the panel would be made up of doctors in the fields of immunology, infectious diseases and general practice and the move had been agreed in conjunction with the Victoria Department of Health.
“We have worked closely with the Victorian Government to establish fair and independent protocols for reviewing medical waiver applications to ensure the 2022 Australian Open is safe and enjoyable for all,” said Tiley.
“Central to this process is that decisions are made by independent medical experts and that each applicant is given due consideration.”
The Melbourne Park tournament, the first grand slam of the year, kicks off on January 17.
Applicants who pass an initial stage will be subject to a second assessment conducted by a government-appointed panel of medical experts prior to submission of the application to the Australian Immunization Register.
All entries will be confidential, Tennis Australia said.
Victoria’s Sports Secretary Martin Pakula said the trial could set a precedent for other major events.
“We are pleased that there is some rigor in the process, we think it leads to the best possible results,” he added.
“They want the safest possible event for players and fans. That requires the most rigorous medical exemption process.”
