COVID-19 vaccine access is changing from October-26
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The way COVID-19 vaccines are funded in Australia will change from 1 October 2026.
COVID-19 vaccines will move to the National Immunisation Program (NIP), which also funds many other routine vaccines. Under the new arrangements, free COVID-19 vaccines will be limited to people at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell.
Who will be eligible for a government-funded COVID-19 vaccine?
From 1 October 2026, government-funded COVID-19 vaccines will be available for:
People aged 75 years and over — one dose every six months
People aged 65–74 years — one dose every 12 months
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50–74 years — one dose every 12 months
People aged 18 years and over who are severely immunocompromised — one dose every 12 months
This means that some people who can currently receive a free COVID-19 vaccine may no longer be eligible after the 1st of October.
What if I am not eligible?
People outside these groups may still be able to purchase a COVID-19 vaccine privately if vaccination is recommended following a discussion with their healthcare provider. The government is expected to provide more information about private vaccine availability and updated clinical recommendations before the new program begins.
Do I need to do anything now?
Until the 1st of October 2026, COVID-19 vaccines will continue to be available under the current arrangements.
If you are due for a COVID-19 vaccine, or are unsure when you last received one, you can speak with your GP about what is recommended for you. Your GP can consider factors such as your age, medical history, previous vaccinations and individual risk of severe illness.
Please be aware that being recommended to receive a vaccine and being eligible for a government-funded vaccine may not always be the same.
Further details will be shared once updated government guidance is available.
Information current as of 14 August 2026. Eligibility and clinical recommendations may change before the new arrangements commence.
